For 27-year-old Rachael Boyle, heart health was a familiar topic. Her younger brother had experienced heart problems as a teenager, but she had always been healthy. That all changed when she fell ill in April 2024.

The First Signs

As Rachael wrapped up her spring semester at the University of Texas, she started experiencing persistent fevers and headaches. Initially dismissing it as a common illness, she pushed through, balancing schoolwork while trying to recover. But after several days of recurring high fevers, she knew something wasn’t right.

Rachael spent the next few weeks in and out of urgent care, taking the recommended over the counter medications and antibiotics after bloodwork showed a slightly elevated white blood cell count. For a brief time, her fever would subside, but it always returned. Finally in late May, another visit to the urgent care led to a blood culture that revealed a bloodstream infection. In addition to the fevers, Rachael began noticing her heart rate was elevated and was referred to an infectious disease specialist and cardiologist.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Three months after her fevers started, Rachael saw a cardiologist who detected a significant heart murmur.

The cardiologist immediately referred her to the ER for additional testing which revealed an even more alarming diagnosis, mitral valve endocarditis. The bacteria in the bloodstream had reached her heart, causing an infection of the mitral valve.

Rachael would need heart surgery.

Rachael was referred to cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Faraz Kerendi who recommended a minimally invasive procedure to repair her mitral valve. Before surgery, she underwent a 28-day course of IV antibiotics to ensure her heart was sterile and ready for the procedure. In August, just one month before her final semester at UT, she underwent mitral valve repair surgery via a small two inch incision between the ribs instead of a standard open heart operation. This less  invasive approach is associated with less blood loss, fewer cardiac arrhythmias, less time in the hospital, and faster overall recovery compared to traditional open heart surgery.

Dr. Kerendi explains that although heart problems typically affect older adults, it is not uncommon for younger people to have heart conditions.

“Common problems in younger individuals include congenital abnormalities present at birth, valvular problems, or aortic aneurysms,” says Dr. Kerendi.

These conditions do not always require an operation to address the problem, however, certain symptoms should be addressed quickly.

“If a person has symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, they should see a physician and have further evaluation,” explained Dr. Kerendi.

Rachael says the experience was both physically and emotionally challenging.

“So much emphasis is put on your physical recovery after heart surgery but it’s important to give yourself permission to work through the mental health struggles that come with having a life-changing surgery.”

Rachael found solace in unexpected places. During cardiac rehab, she met another young woman who had undergone the same surgery. Their shared experience provided a much-needed sense of connection and support during a mentally difficult recovery period.

Lessons & Advice

Rachael’s journey has given her a new perspective on health and advocacy. She hopes sharing her experiences can help others navigate their own health challenges with confidence and resilience. Her advice to others:

  • Listen to your body– If you experience persistent fevers, go to the emergency room.
  • Seek second opinions– Always advocate for yourself and explore different doctors.
  • Healing isn’t just physical– The mental toll of heart surgery can be overwhelming. Seek support from others who have been through similar experiences.
  • Give yourself grace– Recovery takes time, and it’s important to acknowledge the emotional impact of a major health scare.

For questions about our vascular, cardiac, or thoracic services, please visit ctvstexas.com or call us at (512) 459-8753 to schedule an appointment.

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