Miss Diagnosed
Meet Cindy
At 14, Cindy’s shortness of breath during sports was diagnosed as exercise-induced asthma. Years later, she was diagnosed with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after developing pre-syncope, lightheadedness, palpitations, and severe exercise intolerance. Following S-ICD surgery, septal myectomy, and valve repair, Cindy is feeling better and can keep up with her son.
Patient Story Misdiagnosed
Symptoms: Shortness of breath, pre-syncope, lightheadedness, palpitations, and extreme difficulty walking short distances.
Exercise-induced asthma? Nothing that could be fixed? Nothing to worry about?
OR
Obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?
Cindy’s Story
Hi, my name is Cindy.
When I was 14, my symptoms started showing up. I struggled with shortness of breath during high school sports. Initially, I was diagnosed with exercise-induced asthma. I tried an inhaler, but it didn’t work, and steroids didn’t help my breathing either.
My HOCM diagnosis finally came in the summer of 2015, with shortness of breath being my only symptom. But over time (years), things took a turn for the worse.
I started having episodes of pre-syncope, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and palpitations. Just walking to my car became a daunting task that left me feeling like I was about to faint.
Treatment and Recovery
At age 31, I underwent surgery for my S-ICD, and that same year I also underwent surgery for a septal myectomy and valve repair.
It’s been almost 3 years since my surgery, and I’m feeling amazing. I’ve got fewer symptoms, and I can keep up with my son!
I’m sharing my story to spread awareness, so remember to pay attention to what your body is telling you.