I had been dealing with some mild back pain for the past several years. This had recently turned into more leg pain. I did some physical therapy just to confirm it was (or wasn't) muscle related. The physical therapist concluded the pain is most likely due to some nerve compression or restriction. The leg pain has been gradually easing. The back pains returns with more strenuous activity. Moving on.
I had some pain at the base of my thumb that would come and go over the years, but it seemed more consistently noticeable recently. I got a referral to see an orthopedic doctor. He confirmed it was arthritis at the base of the thumb. He said I can try a brace, anti-inflammatory meds, and even cortisone shots. Ultimately it can't be reversed. There's a surgical option if the pain becomes intolerable.
I even saw a dermatologist to check a few suspicious spots. He removed one and did a biopsy. Results determined it was a mole. Nothing to be concerned about.
We did all the normal blood work, and added in a few extras. We checked my uric acid levels since I have a history of gout, and we checked my testosterone and a few others since I had been feeling a little more fatigued than usual lately. Everything came back within normal ranges. Cholesterol is borderline, but I've been working on diet and weight loss, so we agreed to just monitor it for now. All good so far.
One more test. I decided to schedule a heart scan since there is a history of some heart issues in my family. Even though insurance doesn't cover this type of diagnostic scan, it seemed like a good idea at my age. Why doesn't insurance cover this by the way? Of all the preventative tests and scans that can be done, this seems like a cost effective way to get valuable information sooner rather than later. It probably doesn't cost as much as all the bloodwork costs. Anyway, back to the story. I got the results on Christmas Eve.
Moderate plaque burden (101-400). Moderate non-obstructive coronary artery disease highly likely.
Well, that wasn't the Christmas present I expected. Total calcium score of 145. The primary culprit was the left main artery that was scored at 127.
I'm not sure of all the details or implications yet, but I suspect I'll be putting "Visit Cardiologist" on my list of New Year's Resolutions. In the meantime, it's time to renew my focus on eating healthier, exercising more, and losing some weight.
Stay tuned!