Woman's Breathlessness Misdiagnosed as Anxiety, Reveals Heart Condition

Carol Eastley, 75, experienced breathlessness and "funny turns" that doctors attributed to anxiety. However, a subsequent diagnosis by a cardiologist revealed she was suffering from aortic heart valve disease, a condition that impacts millions of individuals over the age of 65. The disease occurs when the valve situated between the heart's main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, and the body's primary artery fails to function correctly.

Eastley, who was previously active and enjoyed sports such as swimming, fencing, and judo, collapsed at a sewing club, signaling a significant health issue. Despite her previous active lifestyle, she experienced symptoms that were initially misinterpreted as psychological.

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IMAGE4 Carol Eastley, pictured with her late husband Richard, was diagnosed with aortic heart valve disease, a condition where the valve between the main pumping chamber – the left ventricle – and the body's main artery fails to work properly

She later required a major operation to replace a damaged heart valve. Following the surgery, Eastley has regained the ability to perform daily tasks such as driving and shopping. While she still experiences fatigue and has had to forgo her previous sports activities, her recovery has allowed her to manage everyday life more comfortably.

IMAGE1 Four years after her operation, Carol can drive, shop and manage everyday tasks, although she still gets tired easily and has had to give up swimming and her old sports

Woman's Breathlessness Misdiagnosed as Anxiety, Reveals Heart Condition

A 75-year-old was initially told her symptoms were psychological before a cardiologist diagnosed a common heart disease affecting millions over 65.

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