It was just an ordinary day. I had finished work and was walking back to my car when I suddenly felt a tightness in my chest. It wasn't severe, but it was unusual enough for me to pay attention.
To put my mind at ease, I visited a nearby healthcare centre and underwent an Electrocardiogram. The doctor advised me to then have a 2D Echocardiogram. The following day, the test revealed that one of my aortic valves was leaking. I was then advised to undergo a CT angiogram for further evaluation.
The CT angiogram changed everything. It revealed that I had an aneurysm of the ascending aorta. Until then, I had no idea what an aortic aneurysm was. I assumed it might be a blockage that could be treated with a stent or a routine procedure.
The cardiologist on duty sat down with my wife and me and carefully explained the seriousness of the situation. My aorta had enlarged to nearly 6.5 cm, and there were concerning changes visible on the scan. He explained that time was of the essence and that I would need a Bentall procedure, a major operation involving replacement of the diseased portion of the aorta and the aortic valve.
The news came as a complete shock. Like most patients, I had never heard of an aortic aneurysm or a Bentall procedure before. My wife and I wanted to understand more and seek another opinion before making such an important decision.
Our search led us to Dr. Niranjan Hiremath, a specialist in aortic disease. He took the time to explain my condition in detail and helped us understand that my valve abnormality was congenital. His clarity, patience, and confidence reassured both of us that surgery was the right course of action. Dr. Niranjan Hiremath and his team. Their expertise, reassurance, and compassionate approach gave me the confidence to move forward with the procedure.
From our very first consultation, they took the time to explain my condition, answer my questions, and help my family and me understand the road ahead. Their guidance transformed a period of fear and uncertainty into one of trust and hope. The surgery was successful, and to my surprise, I was encouraged to start walking by the third or fourth day after the operation. After spending about a week in the hospital, I returned home to begin the next phase of my recovery.
The physical healing was only part of the journey. Emotionally, I struggled with questions that many patients may relate to. I kept asking myself, “Why did my body fail me?” I had always been active. I enjoyed mountain climbing, mountain biking, trekking, and outdoor sports. I had none of the risk factors I associated with heart disease. This was not a cholesterol problem or a lifestyle issue it was something entirely different.
Recovery brought moments of anxiety and uncertainty, but I learned to take one day at a time. Gradually, my confidence returned. By the end of six weeks after surgery, I was back to my routine work and most of my daily activities. Each week brought noticeable improvements in my strength, energy, and overall well being.
Listening to your body, seeking medical attention early, and trusting expert care can make all the difference.
"I never imagined that a brief moment of chest tightness would uncover a life-threatening condition. Early diagnosis, timely surgery, and the support of my family and doctors gave me a second chance at life."
India records approximately 29 lakh (2.9 million) cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths per year, including heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and other heart and blood vessel diseases.