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Suggest Treatment For Single Ventricle Heart Defects

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Posted on Wed, 22 Mar 2017
Question: I am 25 year old born with Single Ventricle. I had PA banding done at the age of 3 and I was not suitable for Fontan due to high PA pressure. I am doing well now and have no complications till today. I regularly have medical follow ups with my cardiologist and the recent tests showed that I am doing well.
But these days I am getting anxious and depressed due to my by birth defect and to make my mental condition worse, my life insurance policy is rejected. Also, I have a girl friend whom I want to get married to, but I am scared of my condition and I am not able to give her any commitment though she accepted me for what I am.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. (14 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You can avoid depression by the following methods and go for commitments.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your query.

I have looked through your reports and understand your concerns. Don't worry all tests are almost normal. Depression, disability, and chronic illness form a vicious cycle.

To avoid depression you can try this:

- Try not to isolate yourself. Reach out to family and friends. If you don't have a solid support system, take steps to build one.
- If you suspect that your medication is bringing you down, talk to your doctor about other possible treatments.
- Keep doing the things you like to do. You'll stay connected as well as boost your self-confidence and sense of community.
- If you think you're depressed, don't wait to get help. Find a therapist or counselor you trust.

As far as commitments are concerned. I think you have to live your life to your fullest. As you say she has accepted you for what you are, means she knows about your health condition as well. I think she is one of your support system. If that is the case, i would suggest you to go ahead with your commitments. If she is unaware of it, it is best for you to discuss all about it honestly and then both of you decide together.

Continue regular follow up with your cardiologist and you can live a normal life.

I hope this answered your query.

With regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. (23 minutes later)
Thank you doctor.

Your response did help me.

My only major concern is whether I will be able to give her a quality life, and will I be having a good life span. As I am not qualified for any life insurance, I am not in a position to provide my better half any additional security in case of any uncertainty.

As said before, I am not hiding anything from her, I did discuss everything with her (I strongly feel that I do not have any severe health issues at present, but I do not know any person with Single ventricle surviving for a long period.) Would it be possible to live longer with my condition with proper diet, exercise, and medical follow ups?

Thank you,

Thank you so much doctor.

I feel relived. I would definitely follow your advice.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. (25 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Yes you can.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again,

Yes you will be able to give her a quality life and most people with single ventricle live satisfying, successful lives. Surviving and Thriving with single ventricle is common. You are not alone. There are women with single ventricle who are able to safely and successfully carry pregnancy and deliver their child. So I would suggest you not to worry too much but take necessary precautions.

You can live long and well with Single Ventricle by:„

- Listening to your body: Visit your cardiologist if you have any signs or symptoms.
– Taking your medications as prescribed.
„- Avoiding tobacco products.
„- Getting regular exercise.
„- Eating healthy Fruits, vegetables and Whole grains.
– Going easy on fats, processed carbohydrates and salt.

You may not be able to get a life insurance but I am sure there are other ways to provide security. I would suggest you to talk to a financial adviser for the same.

I hope this answered your query.

With regards,


Brief Answer:
Welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

You are welcome.

With regards,
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr.

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2011

Answered : 999 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Single Ventricle Heart Defects

Brief Answer: You can avoid depression by the following methods and go for commitments. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for your query. I have looked through your reports and understand your concerns. Don't worry all tests are almost normal. Depression, disability, and chronic illness form a vicious cycle. To avoid depression you can try this: - Try not to isolate yourself. Reach out to family and friends. If you don't have a solid support system, take steps to build one. - If you suspect that your medication is bringing you down, talk to your doctor about other possible treatments. - Keep doing the things you like to do. You'll stay connected as well as boost your self-confidence and sense of community. - If you think you're depressed, don't wait to get help. Find a therapist or counselor you trust. As far as commitments are concerned. I think you have to live your life to your fullest. As you say she has accepted you for what you are, means she knows about your health condition as well. I think she is one of your support system. If that is the case, i would suggest you to go ahead with your commitments. If she is unaware of it, it is best for you to discuss all about it honestly and then both of you decide together. Continue regular follow up with your cardiologist and you can live a normal life. I hope this answered your query. With regards,