My life has been hectic since the last post. It was about my health. During the bank holiday weekend, I was experiencing what I thought was bad indigestion. I took the anti-indigestion tablets, and I thought it had improved. I have suffered from indigestion, as I tend to stuff my food down without chewing it properly, and this has given me no end of problems.
However, yesterday, Tuesday, August 26th, on my way to work, I felt a lot of pressure on my chest. By the time I arrived at work, I was sweating profusely. I mentioned to my colleagues that I did not feel too good. I was advised to call a doctor. After much procrastination on my part, I did call. After explaining my symptoms, I was told to visit the local A&E department. Working in Solihull next to the hospital, I thought it would be best to go there. It turns out they did not have an A&E department, and I would have to make my way back to Sutton Coldfield.
I managed to make my way to Good Hope Hospital. I was promptly given an ECG and told to make my way upstairs. The doctor saw me and told me there was nothing wrong with my heart, but I would need to have a blood test. After waiting nearly an hour, my blood was taken. I was then told to make my way to SDEC.
While there, I ate my lunch of a wrap and coffee. I was called in for more tests. Then I was told they needed more blood. Tony Hancock immediately sprang to mind. After another hour, the doctor called me in. She discussed with me the results and mentioned my slow heart rate. It was compared to an elite athlete, something you would not associate with me.
I was sent for a chest X-ray, which happened very quickly. The doctor called me in again. With her was the specialist. I was told they could detect a slight murmur in my heart. They assured it was nothing to worry about. I was told it may be caused by damage to one of the valves, and they would put me forward for a heart scan. It was likely that this would happen after my holiday. I was recommended to regularly monitor my blood pressure and call my GP after a week. Also, just stick to gentle exercise, as I had admitted to overdoing things at the gym.
For all the moaning about the NHS, I found the service to be quick and efficient. In the UK, we are lucky to have dedicated staff who are willing to help anyone who needs it.
SteveWhittythoughts1965 