- Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia
- Interviews
Samantha's interview
How did all start?
I was starting to get in shape and exercising for the first time in my life 5 days a week when I started getting terrible migraines along with shortness of breath and dizziness and fainting and so I went to my pcp and I had low oxygen and my heart rate was 130’s so she sent me to a cardiologist and neurologist ran a ton of test for the longest they thought the migraines and heart rate had to be related for years it was just a fast heart rate no big deal. I’ve seen 4 different cardiologist finally one was very nice but kinda admitted he just didn’t know what to do and sent me to Vanderbilt and they have been a life saver !!
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes it’s taken at least 4 years maybe a little longer my memory isn’t so good.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
This condition has changed my whole life I can’t work, I’ve gained weight, lost friends and unfortunately a lot of people just don’t understand.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
I’ve lost a ton of friends, some of my family think it’s something I make up luckily my dad has been very supportive.
What things have you stopped doing?
Everything I don’t leave the house with out my dad in fear of passing out.
What do you think about the future?
I just had an ablation 2 weeks ago so I’m hopeful
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
High school no worries just went to school had my job on the weekends
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Go back to college finish my degree and get back to work.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Everyday is a struggle that I have to try my hardest to push through
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Try and stay positive and try to find support groups.
