Welcome to the group!
Glad you got your first computer!
Somtimes doctors don't do surgery unless it is a macroadenoma, it is showing signs of growth, or it is hormone secreting. With prolactinomas, the first line is drug therapy. Tumor hemmorage can be dangerous, so I am glad the doctors did catch you.
Sometimes with macroadenomas some hormones become low, and in your case, it sounds like you had low thyroid and low adrenal function. Did you have this both pre surgery? Or is this just post surgery? I know that MDAnderson has a new cardiopulmonary group, so I think they are indeed concerned about both your heart and your thyroid. Thyroid does indeed have an effect on the heart. This is well documented in the literature.
I think you should ask your endo if you could have your GH tested for deficiency. There is alot of controversy on GH replacement in adults, but if you are indeed GH deficient, the replacement could really make a world of difference. It is also important though that your other hormones are in balance. You should ask your doctor to review your last labs with you, so you know where you are. Perhaps an action plan can be developed?
You can always go to the Release of Information office and get copies of your tests and chart your own progress too. I think, at least for me, it helps me be a part of my care (an active participant). If I see improvement, then I am motiviated to try harder - but that is me.
You need to tell your doctor the changes in your life style and that you are in bed alot now. You also need to keep in mind that it may be hormonal, but then again, it may not. Since you do have heart issues, you need to keep your pcp (hopefully an internal medicine specialist) and your cardiologist part of your regular care. Some endocrinologists strictly stay very narrowly focused in what they treat and what they don't treat, and you need your other team members to keep an eye on the 'rest of the patient'. You can always ask your endo for advice. If she/he is of the busy (rush rush) sort, you can always send a letter ahead of your appointment re: what you want to talk about the next time you come down... and when you see your doctor, remind the letter and then go down your care abouts that you mentioned in the letter. These are just some tips.
Another tip too is to have someone with you during your appointment. Sometimes we don't hear, or selectively hear, and also a second person can be helpful if we 'forget' to voice what we came in for.
Anywhoo... those are the thoughts on the top of my head for now. Hope this helps.
Minnie
