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Real members of MyHeartDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I just had a heart catherization and the doctor found two arteries in the left side of my heart that were blocked.

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Davvenport, FL

Thursday I had a catherization and the doctor found two arteries in the left side of my heart that were 70% blocked. He put a stent in one but said the other was a risky procedure because the artery had branched off into the right side of my heart where the arteries are all 100% blocked. He said that my heart was in okay shape that my problem was my arteries. Exactly what does that mean? I thought the two were connected. Should I be worried or not? I'm not sure I understand how the two can… read more

October 12, 2025
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Answer Summary

Members offered support to someone confused about their doctor's explanation that their heart muscle was healthy despite having severely... Read more

Members offered support to someone confused about their doctor's explanation that their heart muscle was healthy despite having severely blocked arteries, with several members sharing similar experiences of having blocked arteries while maintaining functioning hearts. Several members emphasized the importance of asking the cardiologist for clearer explanations, noting that medical terminology can be overwhelming and that doctors need to communicate in ways patients can understand, while one member explained how the right and left sides of the heart pump blood differently and why blockages of 70% or greater typically require intervention. A recurring theme was taking charge of your own health by finding doctors who listen and explain things well, attending regular follow-up appointments, and not hesitating to seek second opinions if you lack confidence in your care team.

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

I also have a 100% blocked artery with a functioning heart. I see my cardiologist regularly to monitor it.

October 12, 2025
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Glad that your heart muscle is in decent shape. I would talk to your doctor about the artery and find out exactly what he thinks can be done ongoing . You need to have some peace of mind with all of this going on.

October 12, 2025
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Yeah that would confuse me as well ,he would have to explain that a little better so my mind could really understand what he is saying ,because my anxiety level would be off the chart ,these medical people got to realize none of us has went to medical school ,and it has been many years since we took biology class in high school ,so break it down to my level of thinking.Spogmama just keep it pumping

October 12, 2025
MyHeartDiseaseTeam

When doctors say your heart is in "okay shape" but your arteries are the problem, they're referring to two different aspects of heart health:

1. Heart muscle strength and function (pumping ability)
2. The condition of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart

Your heart muscle itself can be strong and functioning Show Full Answer

When doctors say your heart is in "okay shape" but your arteries are the problem, they're referring to two different aspects of heart health:

1. Heart muscle strength and function (pumping ability)
2. The condition of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart

Your heart muscle itself can be strong and functioning well, even while the arteries that supply it with blood become narrowed or blocked. This is similar to having a powerful engine (your heart) but partially clogged fuel lines (your arteries). Your doctor's caution about the second artery is understandable. When arteries branch off and connect to already blocked vessels, procedures become more complex and risky. Sometimes, the body creates alternative pathways for blood flow around blockages (called collateral circulation), which is why you can have blocked arteries but still have a functioning heart.

While this situation requires ongoing medical attention, having one stent placed is a positive step. Work closely with your cardiac team to monitor your condition and follow their recommendations for medications and lifestyle changes to help maintain your heart health.

October 12, 2025
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Having confidence in your Doctor can have a positive impact on results. My pediatrician was with me from birth until my High school football physical. I'd still be with him had he not told me it was time for an adult doctor. This left me with real confidence In good docs, intolerance for assembly line cookbook docs and led to my good overall lifetime health. A lack of confidence may also affect results. Its your choice, and your health.

I went to my first cardiologist knowing I had Afib and expecting an Ablation. He over tested then recommended more. I told him we know I have Afib and all tests showed no other issues. I told him to treat what I have and look further when needed. He caused 3 more delays before i found great docs, discharged him, had a sucessful Ablation. Now 2.5 years later I'm fit, healthy, happy and completely drug free.

Take charge of your own health! If a doc won't listen, give good explanations and give you confidence, they are a problem, not a solution. Move on.

October 13, 2025

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