The post-hospitalization Nurse who contacted me by phone (I believe her name was Danielle) was extremely helpful. She clearly understood my breathing, water, and fatigue issues and helped me solidify what I might ask for when I called the cardio office. She contacted the office, and I also both phoned the cardio office and then emailed (through LiveWell) my cardio doctors with exactly what had been going on. I also asked a lot of questions. Nurse Dorothy in the Cardio office was very informative and helpful in getting me in to see Dr. Krive - as well as explaining what might be happening.  The office visit was key in reducing medication levels and water issues. Even in one day, I am experiencing a reduction in breathing stress while walking and standing.  I know these emergency appointments mess up doctors' schedules, but they are a better alternative than wasting resources (time and personnel) in the ER. Not to mention that the ER will surely need guidance from the Cardio team anyway. The nursing staff in the cardio office is amazingly competent - most of them have decades of experience in that office - they know what is going on with their heart patients. They are friendly, communicative, and even funny, but most of - helpful professionals. Dorothy, Maryjoy, Lucy, Stephen... competent, communicative, and kind. It was a major relief going in for an "emergency" office visit rather than seeking support through the ER. And I am grateful to have had this option. I believe that communication is always the key.  Thanks. 
Park Ridge 1875 Dempster 525 Cardio