ACE Inhibitors

[Marty]

I was recently changed from verapamil (240) and maxide to mavik, plavick and zocor. I don't see anything (so far) on the site about ACE inhibitors. Anyone have any comment?

[Lisa Salberg]

ACE can cause problems in some with HCM - it is not commonly used. I would suggest a consult with an HCM specialist to evaluate your meds.
Lisa

[Reenie]

Lisa, what is Zocor. I know it's supposed to help with high cholesterol, but what does it do with HCM?

[Lisa Salberg]

Zocor has nothing to do with HCM - just because someone has HCM does not mean that you are not going to develope other forms of heart disease... so if you have high cholesterol, it is wise to treat that as well.
Lisa

[Reenie]

Lisa,

I knew that high cholesterol has nothing to do with HCM, but the doc alluded to Zocor having some sort of beneficial effect for people who do have HCM. Something about perhaps helping decrease septal size? I don't see how, though. Any thoughts?

R

[Lisa Salberg]

No.. I have not ever seen any data to suggest such a thing.
Lisa

[Marty]

I was put on Mavak by a "hospitalist". Since then (about 6 weeks) I have become more tired, more short of breath, and cough far more frequently. I just feel listless and BP stays at about 170/80. When I called my cardiologist I was they prefer my GP to regulate blook pressure. To me that's a big clue that as an HCM patient I need a specialist.

I am on an HMO. Any advice on how to get them to allow a referral, and how to approach the GP or cardiologist? Do most of us in FL go to Minnesota? That's a chilling thought! :D

[Reenie]

Marty,

I would ask the GP about the referral. Please call Lisa to find out which specialist center would be best for you.

Reenie
:)

[Lisa Salberg]

Marty - You need a specialist ASAP - Call the office on Tuesday morning and we can talk about some centers and get you on the way.
Lisa