Why do fit racers have heart attacks and what can be done to prevent it? (Page 2)

I had open heart surgery eight years ago to replace my aortic valve.  In a way it's been a blessing to me, because all the testing (catherizations, echocardiograms, etc.) has provided me a pretty comprehensive picture of my overall cardiac health.

My surgery was the result of a biscuspid aortic valve, a congenital defect.  Related to the bad valve, but undetected prior to my surgery, was severe left ventricular hypertrophy, or enlargement of the left ventricle wall.   I was one of those active people who "pushed through" the symptoms when exercising (chronic fatique, shortness of breath, etc.) and almost waited too long to get my problem fixed.

In my pre-op catherization they did a pretty comprehensive survey to see if there were any blockages that they needed to address while they had me opened up for the valve replacement. 

I see my cardiologist annually and have a echocardiogram every two years.  If I hadn't been through the surgery I don't know if I would be doing that.   

My advice would be for anyone over 50 would be to see their PCP and cardiologist on a regular basis, even if you haven't had any prior problems or symptoms, and especially if you have any family history of heart disease.

Mark