Echocardiogram

[Lisa S.]

I had an echo and doc says it looks like I have a 45-50% EF. He wants me to see a cardiologist, however he doesn't think I should be having any symptoms at this stage. I am extremely tired and my heart is racing a lot. Beats upwards of 100 beats a minute, even at rest. I guess this isn't normal for a 33 yr old so I need to check it out. I have been on Herceptin for 4 yrs and now Doxil was added to the mix. I just hate to have to see yet another doctor. What do you think they can put me on, or will they suggest going off Herceptin or Doxil? They are working wonders so far and I don't want to have another chemo. I hope this tiredness is just from radiation and chemo together.
Thanks for hearing me out,
Lisa S.

[Lisa]

Frequently folks on Herceptin will have their measurements drop below 50%. A few weeks off Herceptin usually does the trick and the echo will show the improvement.

Love and light,

Lisa

[lyn]

hi, usual procedure is to have a rest from the herceptin, it can stay in your system for up to 6 weeks so don't panic if you do comne off it.I came throughj heart failure with 3 valves and still stayed on it, I was due to have my triple when I went to hospital so I missed that dose and had a triple another 2 weeks later, so about 5 week break.

Hugs Lyn.

[Michele U]

Lisa,
I've been on herceptin since march and my muga dropped from 58 to 50%. I am tired alot, but i think its from herceptin,and finshing radiation last may. They said the readings can vary about 5 points either way. I would think they would just repeat it in 3 months and not stop chemo. Are you stage 4 on herceptin for the last 4 years?

[Lisa S.]

Yes I have been stage IV for 4 yrs on Herceptin. I took a short break for a month in April of this year. Other than that I have been on for 4 straight years!
I love that drug, I am convinced I am here because of it.
Lisa S.