Joanne Matos, a resilient individual living with congestive heart failure and an enlarged heart, has faced significant health challenges. In 2020, her symptoms peaked, leading to a stroke and two heart attacks. Doctors delivered grim news: her organs were shutting down, and an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) was her only lifeline. Matos underwent a life-saving procedure to receive the Abbott HeartMate 3 LVAD, enabling her to maintain an active lifestyle despite her condition.
Heart failure affects approximately 6.7 million adults aged 20 and older in the United States. This condition occurs when the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs. Typically, medications serve as the first line of treatment. However, in cases where medications are inadequate, advanced therapies like an LVAD or heart transplant evaluation become necessary.
Matos' journey toward stability began amidst alarming symptoms. She recalls experiencing extreme dizziness and a sense of spinning, which she initially mistook for a seizure.
“I thought I was dying… at first, it felt like a seizure — the spinning, the dizziness. I thought, OK, I know I’m going to fall and hit my head, so I’m just going to sit down and get on the floor now,” – Joanne Matos
Her proactive decision-making during these episodes exemplifies her determination to manage her health effectively.
With consistent medical treatment and regular doctor visits, Matos has managed to thrive despite her health challenges. Her story emphasizes the importance of routine heart screenings for individuals with congestive heart failure.
“If someone has congestive heart failure it is important to have regular heart screenings to assess the strength of their heart as well as the effectiveness of any treatment they may be undergoing,” – Isla McClelland, MD
Dr. Isla McClelland highlights the critical need for monitoring heart function and treatment efficacy in patients with weakened heart muscles, which can lead to serious complications such as blood clots and increased stroke risk.
“With a very weakened heart muscle, there is no longer robust flow of blood through the heart, and when blood is slowed down, it can cause a blood clot, which can then be ejected from the heart and increase a person’s risk for stroke,” – Isla McClelland, MD
Through her journey, Matos shares her experiences with others, offering hope and guidance to those facing similar health struggles. Her ability to lead an active life post-treatment underscores the potential of advanced therapies like the LVAD in transforming lives.
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