Chest Discomfort: Treatment Options for Heart Issues

Chest tightness and discomfort with deep breathing?

Today, I went to Nanmen Hospital for an X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests.
Dr.
Lin prescribed three medications for myocardial infarction, angina, and pain relief.
Only the ECG showed abnormalities; the rest were normal.
I would like to ask the doctor if the medication is effective, do I still need to transfer to Shengxin for treatment? If the medication is ineffective, is it possible that after the consultation at Shengxin, I might need to be hospitalized or undergo surgery? I feel helpless with this heart pain.

Jia Ting Zhu Fu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/09/30

Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine

Are you saying that only the electrocardiogram (ECG) showed abnormalities while other tests were normal, and then some oral medications were prescribed? Were you informed that you have heart disease? I hope you can clarify two things with your doctor: first, whether the heart disease is serious; and second, if any further tests are needed.
Don't worry for now; once you have clear answers, you can decide on the next steps.

Reply Date: 2011/09/30

More Info

Chest discomfort can be a concerning symptom, especially when it relates to potential heart issues. Based on your recent medical evaluations, including chest X-rays, EKGs, and blood tests, it appears that you have been diagnosed with conditions that may include myocardial infarction (heart attack) and angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart). The treatment prescribed by Dr. Lin, which includes medications for pain relief and management of your heart condition, is a common initial approach.

When considering whether to continue with medication or seek further treatment options, several factors come into play. If the medications are effective in alleviating your symptoms, it may not be immediately necessary to pursue more invasive treatments. However, if you continue to experience chest pain despite medication, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
In cases where medication does not provide sufficient relief, or if there are significant abnormalities on the EKG or other tests, further interventions may be warranted. This could include additional diagnostic tests, such as a stress test or coronary angiography, to assess the condition of your coronary arteries. If significant blockages are found, procedures such as angioplasty or stenting may be recommended to restore blood flow to the heart.

It's also important to consider your overall risk factors for heart disease. Factors such as age, family history, lifestyle choices (like smoking and diet), and existing health conditions (like hypertension or diabetes) can influence the severity of your heart issues and the urgency of treatment.
If you find that your symptoms persist or worsen, and if your healthcare provider at Sheng Hsin Hospital recommends hospitalization, it is likely to ensure your safety and provide closer monitoring. Hospitalization may also be necessary if there is a concern for a more serious condition that requires immediate intervention.

In summary, the decision to continue with medication or seek further treatment should be based on your response to the current treatment, the severity of your symptoms, and the results of your diagnostic tests. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. Remember, managing heart health is a collaborative effort between you and your healthcare team, and open communication is key to achieving the best outcomes.

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