Your Heart Echo Report: Key Insights for Health Concerns

Hello Dr. Wu, I would like to ask for your help in determining if there are any areas of concern in the echocardiogram report?

Due to a recent sudden increase in blood pressure, sometimes my systolic pressure spikes to 165, but when measured at home, the average is around 110 to 125, with diastolic pressure around 80 to 90 (is the diastolic pressure somewhat high?).
I usually do not sleep well, often experiencing light sleep or insomnia, and I sometimes feel short of breath or have numbness in my limbs, but it resolves after a few hours.
I'm unsure if this is influenced by my emotions.
The doctor I am currently seeing did not say much, only that my blood pressure range is still considered normal and advised me to continue monitoring it at home, providing me with a stack of reports.
After reviewing the reports at home, I wonder if I can engage in normal activities like running, jumping, or playing basketball? Should I follow up with a doctor for further monitoring? In the echocardiogram report, I noticed "mild TR." I am unsure what this means and whether it could worsen (I am quite worried about whether there is something wrong with my health...)
----- Blood Test Report -----
LDL-C: 130 (high)
Total Cholesterol: 211 (high)
HDL-C: 62
Glucose: 83
Estimated GFR: >60 (84 for reference) mL/min/1.73m²
Sodium: 141
Potassium: 4.6
ALT/GPT: 16
Free-T4: 0.98
TSH: 1.85
Cortisol: 4.04
----- 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitor Report -----
Indication: Suspected hypertension
Findings:
24-hour average SBP/DBP = 122/78 mmHg (hypertension > 135/85)
Average awake SBP/DBP = 129/87 mmHg (hypertension > 140/90)
Average sleep SBP/DBP = 113/66 mmHg (hypertension > 125/75)
Nocturnal BP dipping (10-20%): Yes (S/D = 12.8/24.5%)
Morning BP surge (MBPS: rise in SBP > 50 and/or DBP > 22 during 6 AM - 10 AM compared to night BP): No
Conclusion:
1.
Normal BP with nocturnal dipping.
2.
Negative for morning surge.
----- Echocardiogram Report -----
= Report =
M-Mode Transthoracic Echocardiography
Indications: Echo machine: GE Vivid E9
Patient source: OPD
[Atrium and Aortic Root]
Aortic Diameter (AO): 31 mm
Left Atrial Diameter (LA): 27 mm
[Left Ventricle]
Interventricular Septum (IVS): 8 mm
Posterior Wall (PW): 7 mm
End-Diastolic Diameter (EDD): 49 mm
End-Systolic Diameter (ESD): 32 mm
End-Diastolic Volume (EDV): 115 ml
End-Systolic Volume (ESV): 41 ml
Left Ventricular Mass: 125 mg
Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) by M-mode measurement: 65%
Left Ventricular Wall Motion: Normal wall motion
[Other Findings]
Pericardial Effusion: None
Intracardiac Thrombus: No
Conclusion:
1.
No cardiac chamber dilation.
2.
No left ventricular wall thickness.
3.
Normal left ventricular systolic function with normal wall motion.
4.
Mild tricuspid regurgitation (TR).

Jerry, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/21

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology

Mild tricuspid regurgitation does not affect cardiac function.
It is recommended to adjust lifestyle habits and engage in regular exercise.

Reply Date: 2023/04/21

More Info

Understanding your heart echo report is crucial for managing your cardiovascular health, especially given your recent concerns about elevated blood pressure and other symptoms. Let's break down the key findings from your reports and what they mean for your overall health.

Blood Pressure Concerns
Your home blood pressure readings indicate a systolic pressure (the top number) averaging between 110-125 mmHg, which is generally considered normal. However, you mentioned instances where your systolic pressure spiked to 165 mmHg. This could be indicative of stress, anxiety, or other transient factors affecting your blood pressure. Your diastolic pressure (the bottom number) averaging around 80-90 mmHg is slightly elevated, particularly if it consistently reaches 90 mmHg or higher, which could suggest a need for further monitoring or lifestyle adjustments.

The 24-hour blood pressure monitoring report shows an average of 122/78 mmHg, which is within normal limits. The average awake blood pressure of 129/87 mmHg is slightly elevated, but it does not classify as hypertension unless it consistently exceeds 140/90 mmHg. The nocturnal dipping indicates that your blood pressure decreases during sleep, which is a positive sign and suggests good cardiovascular health.

Heart Echo Report Insights
Your echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) report shows several important findings:
1. Left Ventricular Function: Your left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is measured at 65%, which is within the normal range (typically above 55% is considered normal). This indicates that your heart is pumping effectively.

2. Mild Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR): The report notes "mild TR." This means that there is a small amount of backflow of blood from the right ventricle into the right atrium during heart contraction. Mild TR is common and often does not require treatment unless it progresses. Regular follow-up with echocardiograms can help monitor any changes.

3. Normal Wall Motion: The report indicates normal wall motion of the left ventricle, which is a good sign, as it suggests that there are no areas of the heart muscle that are not contracting properly.

4. No Pericardial Effusion or Intracardiac Thrombus: The absence of fluid around the heart and blood clots within the heart chambers is reassuring.

Symptoms and Lifestyle Considerations
You mentioned experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, feelings of anxiety, and occasional numbness in your extremities. These symptoms can sometimes be related to anxiety or stress, particularly if they occur during periods of heightened emotional distress. However, it’s essential to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, especially if they persist or worsen.

Regarding your ability to engage in physical activities like running or playing basketball, your current heart function appears to be adequate for such activities. However, it’s always wise to consult with your physician before starting or continuing any vigorous exercise, especially given your recent blood pressure fluctuations and symptoms.

Follow-Up Recommendations
1. Regular Monitoring: Continue to monitor your blood pressure at home and keep a log of your readings. This can help your doctor assess any patterns or changes over time.

2. Follow-Up Appointments: Schedule regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms, blood pressure readings, and echocardiogram results. This is particularly important if you notice any changes in your health.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider lifestyle changes that can help manage blood pressure, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and adequate sleep.

4. Understanding Mild TR: Since you have mild tricuspid regurgitation, it’s important to keep an eye on it during future echocardiograms. If it progresses, your doctor may discuss potential treatments or lifestyle changes.

In summary, while your heart echo report shows mostly normal findings, it’s essential to remain vigilant about your blood pressure and any symptoms you experience. Regular communication with your healthcare provider will be key in managing your cardiovascular health effectively.

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