Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges

Could you be one of the tens of thousands of people unknowingly living with a myocardial bridge? Or worse yet, knowingly living with the condition and not having it recognized as a potentially symptomatic, even life threatening, condition? My guest today is another local acquaintance. A friend of a friend. An unbelievably close association to yet another myocardial bridge patient. Janie Desmond Ison and I are going to unpack the startling statistic that while a quarter of the population may have myocardial bridges, only a small fraction are diagnosed as symptomatic. This episode challenges prevalent misconceptions, shares the journey of symptoms often dismissed, and highlights the power of awareness in seeking proper medical attention. Through her story, we aim to connect with those who might feel alone in their struggle and encourage them to pursue the support they need, knowing this is yet another example of the condition that may be similar to what you're facing.

Join us as we follow an individual's incredible journey from experiencing mild symptoms like shortness of breath and palpitations to receiving a life-changing diagnosis of a myocardial bridge and an uncommon solution. We discuss managing this condition amidst complications like low blood pressure and fatigue due to treatments from beta blockers. The narrative sheds light on navigating unexpected health issues and the emotional and physical challenges of making complex medical decisions. We emphasize the vital importance of trust in healthcare professionals and explore the paths available for effective management and recovery.

Our conversation also offers a hopeful glimpse into life after heart surgery, focusing on recovery's emotional and physical hurdles. The critical role of cardiac rehabilitation, peer support, and the need to reassess life priorities post-surgery are discussed. We celebrate advancements in surgical techniques and the necessity of advocating for one's heart health by staying vigilant about symptoms. By sharing these stories of resilience and recovery, we hope to inspire and reassure listeners facing similar challenges, highlighting the strength found in community and support networks.

For more information and details visit the website HERE

To purchase the book, "My Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges" find it at Amazon.com or in this link.

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Myocardial Bridge Awareness and Discussion

Myocardial bridges are often undiagnosed, causing frustration and symptoms like shortness of breath and heart attack-like sensations.

(04:57) Journey With Myocardial Bridge Diagnosis

Personal journey of health challenges, diagnosis of myocardial bridge, managing condition with low blood pressure and fatigue.

(19:58) Navigating Post-Surgery Complications and Recovery

A heart surgery journey highlights the importance of clear communication, informed decision-making, and navigating post-operative challenges.

(35:02) Navigating Life After Heart Surgery

Emotional and physical challenges of heart surgery, importance of support and rehabilitation, and need for proactive health management.

(42:10) Advocating for Your Heart Health

Exploring heart surgery complexities, including myocardial bridges and evolving treatment options, and the importance of awareness and research.

(50:47) Sharing Stories of Heart Health

Acknowledging and addressing heart health issues, sharing personal experiences, and emphasizing the importance of being proactive.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

Can myocardial bridges be more than just incidental findings in cardiac diagnostics? Join us as we unravel this complex topic with Dr. Khaled Ziada from the Cleveland Clinic. You'll gain a deep understanding of how myocardial bridges, often dismissed as non-significant, can impact blood flow, especially when factors like endothelial dysfunction and coronary spasms are involved. Listen in to discover the pivotal role of provocative testing in determining when surgical intervention is truly necessary.

We discuss the complex techniques utilized in identifying and evaluating myocardial bridges. From CT scans to angiograms and intravascular ultrasounds, Dr. Ziada walks us through the tools that help pinpoint these bridges with a degree of precision. He also elaborates on the use of dobutamine provocation to assess arterial compression and simulate stress conditions, which can reveal underlying ischemic issues. This comprehensive diagnostic approach is crucial for tailoring surgical and medical treatment strategies to the unique needs of each patient.

Finally, we explore the often-underestimated challenges of treating endothelial dysfunction and microvascular disease post-surgery. Dr. Ziada emphasizes the importance of personalized medical therapies and lifestyle interventions in managing these conditions effectively. We also get a glimpse of the exceptional care model at Cleveland Clinic, where patients receive tailored support, whether through virtual or in-person consultations. Collaboration is vital between patients and physicians to enhance quality of life and stability in managing these intricate cardiac conditions and I found Dr. Ziada to have wonderful sense of concern for the well-being of those he works with.

You can learn more about the Cleveland clinic HERE.

You can email Dr. Ziada directly at [email protected]

Chapters

(00:00) Myocardial Bridges and Surgery Considerations

(06:36) Identification and Evaluation of Myocardial Bridges

(16:35) Endothelial Dysfunction and Medical Treatment

(28:33) Microvascular Dysfunction and Treatment Options

(35:02) Microvascular Dysfunction and Patient Care

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

What if the symptoms of heart disease are present, but the usual suspects aren't to blame? This intriguing question sets the stage for my conversation with Dr. Samit Shah, as we dive into the complex world of ischemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA). Dr. Shah shares his groundbreaking work on invasive coronary function testing, a crucial development in the past decade that helps us understand symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath without coronary blockages. DISCOVER ANOCA program is creating standardized protocols for provocative testing, ensuring that patients receive precise diagnoses and effective care.

Our discussion takes a closer look at the nuanced challenges of diagnosing and treating myocardial bridging, vasospasm, and microvascular dysfunction. With a compelling case study, we illustrate how provocative testing can identify the root causes of symptoms, leading to non-surgical treatment paths. Dr. Shah introduces the Discover Inoka study, which standardizes the use of intravascular imaging for myocardial bridges. By establishing these testing protocols, the medical community is better equipped to treat such conditions with newfound enthusiasm.

As we wrap the conversation, we confront the ongoing challenges and future opportunities in making provocative testing widely accessible. The importance of understanding conditions before major interventions and the role of the Microvascular Network in connecting patients to specialized care are emphasized. We also spotlight advancements in studying myocardial bridging, where surgical unroofing is now tracked in clinical trials, offering unprecedented insights into patient outcomes and enhancing cardiac care. Dr. Shah's insights are driving forward a crucial conversation on improving diagnoses and offering hope to patients with challenging cardiac conditions.

CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Discover ANOCA Clinical Trial Overview

(08:41) Advance in Diagnosis and Treatment

(14:07) Improving Access to Provocative Testing

(27:24) Myocardial Bridging Clinical Trial Outcomes

Discover INOCA clinical trials application and information is available HERE.

For more information about myocardial bridging and microvascular testing, visit the microvascular network, HERE

White paper on chest pain. American Heart Assoc

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001029

https://www.microvascularnetwork.com/

https://www.jscai.org/article/S2772-9303(24)01512-6/fulltext

https://www.jscai.org/article/S2772-9303(25)01048-8/fulltext

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

What happens when a fit and active lifestyle is interrupted by an unexpected health condition? Join me as I explore the profound journey of Mark Davis, one of my most dear friends, as he discovers something he, nor I, would have ever expected or suspected he might have — a myocardial bridge. Clearly MB’s can affect anyone, regardless of their health, race gender or ethnicity. Experience the emotional highs and lows Mark encounters while seeking a diagnosis. Together, we’ll unpack the frustrating reality of navigating a medical maze, where clear answers feel elusive and symptoms persist despite being told his heart was healthy. Many of you are familiar with this journey. This crazy narrative underscores the importance of resilience and determination in the face of medical uncertainty.

Here’s a chance to learn about the critical role of community and support systems in overcoming health challenges. Mark shares his personal story, highlighting the comfort and strength he found in close friendships and online communities. Discover the power of connecting with others who understand and share similar experiences, especially when facing a condition that’s often under-recognized in the medical world. This episode brings hope and inspiration, as Mark expresses gratitude for the unwavering support he’s received and offers insights into how persistence and self-advocacy can pave the way for better health outcomes. We’ll continue Mark’s journey as he progresses to his provocative testing and eventual choice of what his medical decision will be.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

IMPERFECT HEART: STORIES OF MYOCARDIAL BRIDGES… THE BOOK!  You can now find it on amazon by clicking on the link  HERE.  Share it with your doctor, your cardiologist or anyone interested in learning a little more about our condition. I hope you can use it to your advantage to get the story told that Myocardial Bridges are real and they do cause symptoms. Let’s use the book as a tool to educate, inform and provide hope. Thanks!

This is an encore episode released previously in February of last year. Due to its popularity and the incredible journey of my guest, Kelly Portillo, not to mention the value of faith in many of the conversations had with patients, it seemed appropriate to post again. Certainty removes any semblance of doubt and without doubt, there is no reason for faith. Our condition is anything but certain, we and everyone supporting us are filled with doubt and fear and that means there’s a great big opening for faith. Discover how Kelly Portillo practiced her faith successfully.

Discover the power of perseverance and the importance of advocating for your own health as we share Kelly’s captivating story, an individual who transformed her struggle with undiagnosed heart issues into a journey of self-discovery and medical triumph. At the young age of 13, Kelly’s life took a dramatic turn in a karate class when she first experienced symptoms that would lead her on a path filled with challenges, misdiagnoses, and a relentless pursuit for answers. Her experiences shed light on the complexities of navigating the healthcare system and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself when faced with skepticism from professionals who should be allies.

Feel the frustration and eventual elation as Kelly, undeterred by failed multiple ablasions, discovers and then connects with the expertise at Stanford to tackle her condition head-on. Her story is not just about the physical ailment of supraventricular tachycardia and a myocardial bridge but also about the emotional battle with it all, including the insurance companies, the exhausting appeals, and the sweet success of validation. Kelly’s journey highlights the critical role of patient advocacy and the difference it can make in receiving proper care, offering hope and guidance for those who may find themselves in similar, overwhelming situations.

Her constant and consistent belief in her faith and her fortitude, would yield incredible transformation from living with decades of pain to now embracing an active lifestyle post-unroofing surgery. Her narrative not only provides solace but also inspires; there is hope if you’re suffering from a myocardial bridge and with the right support and determination, a quality life after years of furstration, is more than just possible—it’s within reach.

Please give us a positive review, leave a comment and subscribe.

For more information, visit www.myimperfectheart.com. If you would like to participate and share your story on the program, you can email me at [email protected].  If you would like to ask a question and have it played or answered on the program, you can leave me an audio message via DM on the facebook group page. Thank you.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

Enduring the tumultuous journey of heart condition diagnosis and treatment led me, Jeff Holden, to realize the profound need for a supportive community and reliable information. Reflecting on my own experiences, from the initial confusion and misdiagnosis to the breakthrough testing and subsequent surgery at Stanford, I’ve been driven to share insights that can empower others in similar situations. This episode marks a significant milestone with the release of my new book, Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, a tangible resource aimed at providing solace and understanding to those who prefer something beyond digital content. Through patient stories and expert interviews, I’ve assembled a wealth of knowledge that addresses the myriad challenges faced by patients, families, and healthcare professionals alike.

Together with the relentless dedication of our Facebook group participants, the administrators, Rob and Stephanie, and the rest of the team, our community has flourished, expanding from 1,200 to over 2,600 members in just two years. This growth underscores our collective mission to raise awareness and foster understanding of heart conditions. It also emphasizes the need for a book as well. My hope is that this book will serve as an invaluable tool not only for individuals grappling with their diagnosis but also for medical professionals who need a deeper grasp of patient experiences. By sharing these narratives and insights, I aim to reach those who aren’t digitally inclined and provide a cornerstone of support that bridges gaps in communication and knowledge across all fronts. Now we finally have… a book, the book, my book.

Get your copy of Imperfect Heart:Stories of Myocardial Bridges HERE.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

Jennifer Shetler never imagined that a routine run would lead her from the role of a healthcare professional to that of a heart patient. Yet, an unexpected bout of chest pain during her daily jog turned her world upside down, prompting her to reassess her perceptions of health. Join us as Jennifer shares her deeply personal journey through the complexities of cardiac care, from initial missteps in diagnosis to the eventual discovery of a myocardial bridge. Her story emphasizes the unpredictable nature of heart conditions, particularly for athletes, and sheds light on the unique ways these issues present in women.

As we navigate Jen’s experiences, we highlight the critical steps in diagnosing and managing cardiac conditions, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive testing. Her narrative underscores the challenges faced when outward appearances of health mask underlying problems, and how persistence in seeking advanced imaging can be life-saving. She candidly shares her decision-making process surrounding surgical options, the role of community support, and her reliance on a network of friends and run club members in overcoming her health crisis.

The episode also explores the emotional and physical journey of recovery following cardiac surgery. Jennifer offers insights into building a strong support system and the power of patient advocacy in securing necessary care. Through her story, listeners are reminded of the importance of listening to their bodies and advocating for themselves within the healthcare system. Jennifer’s transformation from heart nurse to heart patient serves as a poignant reminder of the value of resilience, knowledge, and community in navigating life’s unexpected trials. Her trust in care is clearly demonstrated knowing the track record of a cardio thoracic surgeon known for his skill in bypasses, not unroofing procedures. This should be a valuable understanding as it opens the door for so many more opportunities to be “unroofed” knowing the necessary content  is available to teach and support a qualified surgeon to perform the sugery he or she has likely already experienced.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

Embarking on a quest for answers, Steve Millington faced a world of mystery when his heart first sent distress signals at just 22. Misdiagnosed and misunderstood, Steve’s journey through unrelenting chest pain took him from Australia to Sweden, and eventually across Europe, in search of clarity and care. With the steadfast support of his partner Kim, Steve’s path was fraught with skepticism from the medical community and financial burdens that threatened to overshadow his fight for health. This episode chronicles not just a physical journey, but a testament to resilience and the power of unyielding self-advocacy.

Across continents and healthcare systems, Steve’s search for a solution to his symptomatic heart bridge was anything but conventional. Failing to find resolution within European borders, Steve’s story led him to Pakistan, where Dr. Takir Akbar recognized the urgency of his condition. This wasn’t just a leap of faith but a critical pivot in a long-fought battle against medical uncertainty. Discover how Steve navigated the complexities of international healthcare and challenged preconceived notions about medical treatment abroad, ultimately finding hope and healing in unexpected places.

The cost of pursuing heart health extended beyond financial struggles to emotional and mental challenges, as Steve navigated a landscape that often felt isolating. With courage, he faced the obstacles of delayed diagnoses and skeptical professionals, advocating for himself in a world that didn’t always provide clear answers. Through his experiences, we are reminded of the crucial role of perseverance and the pursuit of all possible options, regardless of geographic or financial boundaries. Join us as we unravel Steve’s inspiring tale of navigating the intricacies of global healthcare and the undying spirit of someone who refuses to give up.

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Steve Millington’s Heart Journey

Steve’s journey with persistent health symptoms, misdiagnosis, and support from his partner, leading to seeking medical attention.

(11:46) Desperate Search for Heart Surgery

Desperate search for treatment of rare heart condition spans multiple countries, facing skepticism and insurance complications.

(21:20) Heart Surgery Journey in Pakistan

Transformative journey to Pakistan for medical procedure, highlighting excellent care and cost-effectiveness, with unexpected post-surgery complications.

(31:16) Financial Challenges in Seeking Medical Care

Becoming a health advocate, researching reliable information, and seeking affordable treatment for COVID vaccine-related conditions.

(36:22) Navigating Heart Health Treatment Options

Proactive health management, securing loans for surgeries, self-advocacy, and risks of untreated cardiac issues.

(49:16) Journey to Affordable Heart Surgery

Steve’s journey of undergoing open heart surgery in Pakistan due to cost constraints and lack of proper diagnosis, highlighting the importance of perseverance and exploring all possible avenues for better health outcomes.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

Facing unexpected health challenges can be a monumental experience, as lifelong athlete John Chan discovered when he encountered severe chest pains during an ultra marathon. Join us as he recounts his compelling journey from initial denial to acceptance of his heart condition, navigating a complex medical landscape as the youngest patient in his cardiologist’s office. John’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the profound realization that health challenges can change one’s perspective on life. The recognition his gift of recovery, created a reflective and appreciative mindset at first, only to fall back into his lifestyle prior to the presentation of symptoms and subsequent surgery. 

John takes us through the emotional and mental preparation for his heart surgery, painting a vivid picture of the virtual orientation with Dr. Balkhy that eased his fears and brought clarity. This pivotal moment highlights the importance of trusting medical expertise while balancing it with personal goals and emotional wellbeing. Discover how John’s journey underscores the necessity of a comprehensive approach to major health decisions, where spiritual and gratitude aspects coexist with medical concerns.

As John celebrates his remarkable recovery journey, he emphasizes the power of openness and shared experiences in fostering hope. Whether it’s the poignant moment of enjoying a Chicago deep-dish pizza before surgery or advocating for regular health check-ups, John’s narrative encourages proactive health management. His heartfelt gratitude for the support from his medical team and the community underlines the  impact of sharing personal health stories and building a network of hope for those facing similar challenges. It’s the realization of the need to return the favor of support and gratitude for the gift of recovery that makes this story so unique, and John the man of character he is, in his return to appreciation for all that has happened for him.

Chapter Summaries:

(00:00) Journey to Heart Health

John Chan’s journey from athlete to confronting heart issues, including disbelief, medical tests, and navigating the healthcare system as a young patient.

(14:45) Surgical Decision Making Process

Dr. Balkhy’s virtual orientation session for a medical procedure focused on understanding the patient’s journey, goals, and trust in the medical team’s expertise.

(18:58) Life-Changing Heart Surgery Recovery

Preparing for surgery, meeting Dr. Balkhy, and reflecting on life’s legacy and gratitude during recovery.

(32:59) Sharing Hope and Gratitude

Sharing personal health experiences to inspire and provide hope, emphasizing proactive management and advocating for men’s health.

(41:46) Gratitude and Shared Hope

Gratitude and hope in recovery journeys, support from medical professionals, and sharing personal experiences to inspire others.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it. 

I was doing some work with AI for a project and I wondered what I would find if I began a conversation about myocardial bridges. To my amazement, the responses to my questions were quite contemporary, on point for the most part and very much aware of the condition without doubt. I found the answers to be as technical as I wanted to get or as general given what I asked. The overall takeaway for me, was that there was little downside or disinformation. The entire conversation was pro myocardial bridges as we know them. If we could only get the majority of our medical community to be as receptive to the condition as our AI is, there would be far fewer people suffering from the condition and, in my opinion, far fewer deaths from cardiac arrest. We’re making progress and the more our digital/virtual resources endorse the corrective procedures for a condition that is more common than other diseases like cancer and stroke, the better off we’re going to be. There’s a lot in the episode as we cover a lot of ground. It’s one worth taking notes on if you find areas of interest. I hope the episode gives you some additional support to share with whomever you’re trying to convince that what you’re experiencing is real. It should also enlighten you to the capability of what AI can provide us with regard to information about myocardial bridges. It gives me tremendous encouragement to see that AI is initially very receptive to the techniques for correction of a bridge.  Here’s to a future of acute awareness of MB’s and to procedures and techniques to remedy them. I know one place we can go to get comfort in knowledge! Enjoy the episode.

If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.  

If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges, you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.