Understanding Heart Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Cardiac issues Hello doctor, I previously experienced arrhythmia and underwent examinations at a major hospital, including blood tests, X-rays, electrocardiograms, a 24-hour Holter monitor, and echocardiography. All results were normal. The doctor mentioned I have mild mitral val...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, beta-blockers are a type of sympatholytic agent. Generally, they are not suitable for individuals who are allergic to this medication, have asthma, or experience bradycardia. Overall, they are considered quite safe. Although you described multiple s...[Read More] Understanding Heart Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Can You Donate Blood After Atrial Septal Defect Closure at Age 13?
Postoperative blood donation after atrial septal defect closure device placement? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if I can donate blood after having undergone a catheterization procedure to close an atrial septal defect at the age of 13, and I am no longer under follow-up care...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding the question, "I had a catheter procedure to close an atrial septal defect at the age of 13, and I no longer need follow-up. Is it possible for me to donate blood?" This should not hinder your ability to donate blood, according to the Changhua Hospital ...[Read More] Can You Donate Blood After Atrial Septal Defect Closure at Age 13?
Which Specialist to See for Left Upper Back Pain and Arm Numbness?
You should see a specialist in neurology or orthopedics for left upper back pain accompanied by hand numbness and a sensation of vascular pain in the arm? In the past two to three days, I have experienced a painful sensation in my left upper arm that feels like vascular pain (it ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to see a neurologist. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Left Upper Back Pain and Arm Numbness?
Can Eating Sweets Cause Heart Pain? Understanding Your Symptoms
Experiencing discomfort in the heart after consuming sweets? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a lot of stress lately, which has led to autonomic nervous system dysfunction and gastrointestinal discomfort. A few days ago, after eating chocolate-filled cookies, I felt stomach...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, chest pain related to eating should primarily be considered in relation to gastrointestinal issues. However, if it is specifically associated with sweet foods, the reason is unclear. It is advisable to stay calm, as it is likely not a dangerous phys...[Read More] Can Eating Sweets Cause Heart Pain? Understanding Your Symptoms
Managing Cardiovascular Health in Seniors: Tips for Heart and Sleep Issues
Cardiovascular issues in the elderly? My father is 65 years old and has undergone numerous cardiovascular examinations, including MRI, electrocardiogram (ECG), and pulse oximetry to measure blood oxygen levels and heart rate. Several doctors believe that there are no abnormalitie...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
1. For sleep issues, it is recommended to consult a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic medicine specialist. 2. Moderate exercise can help prevent chronic diseases, but if one is already diagnosed, further examination and treatment are necessary. 3. Cardiac issues can be evaluate...[Read More] Managing Cardiovascular Health in Seniors: Tips for Heart and Sleep Issues
Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: Causes and Management Tips
Solutions for Cardiac Rhythm Issues I have been experiencing discomfort in my heart, with episodes of rapid and slow heartbeats (I am taking antiarrhythmic medication). Additionally, I have been experiencing persistent tinnitus due to the heart discomfort. Two weeks ago, I underw...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Due to your young age and the absence of chronic diseases, your risk of developing heart disease is low. Many factors in daily life can contribute to this situation, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive intake of caffeinated beverages. It is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: Causes and Management Tips
Understanding Palpitations: Distinguishing Strong Heartbeats from Arrhythmias
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. He, I have a few questions to ask you: Q1. Recently, I came across a medical report stating that "a strong heartbeat can make us feel our heartbeat, which is completely normal without arrhythmia, yet we may still experience palpitations. There...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, that's correct. Palpitations do not equal arrhythmias, but you cannot determine the presence of arrhythmias or premature beats solely from palpitations. I'm not a fortune teller, and I cannot know if your last episode of palpitations was associated with arrhythmi...[Read More] Understanding Palpitations: Distinguishing Strong Heartbeats from Arrhythmias
Post-Catheterization Arm Pain and Yellowing Palms: Causes Explained
Post-cardiac catheterization, experiencing arm pain and yellowing of the palm? Hello, I had a cardiac catheterization two weeks ago where two stents were placed. Initially, the procedure was supposed to be done through my left hand, but due to the small size of the vessels, it wa...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Yellowing indicates that the bruise is healing. If there is no pain, redness, or swelling, there is no need to worry.[Read More] Post-Catheterization Arm Pain and Yellowing Palms: Causes Explained
Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Medication Consultation and Concerns
Consultation on Antiarrhythmic Medications Hello Director: Currently, due to arrhythmia, premature atrial contractions, and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, I have been taking one tablet of Rynol (Ranolazine) twice daily for over two months. My heart rate was over 100 beats per mi...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, reducing to 1-2 times a week is considered controlled, unless the medication dosage is increased. With an ALT of 60 and LDL of 120, if you have concerns about liver side effects, you can start with dietary control and reduce oil intake. We can discuss further after your bl...[Read More] Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Medication Consultation and Concerns
Understanding Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms: Causes and Concerns
Different blood pressure readings in both arms? My left arm blood pressure is 121/77, and my right arm blood pressure is 147/87. The difference in blood pressure between my two arms—could it be due to my cervical spine pain, which causes sounds when I move my neck, leading to cer...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is normal for blood pressure readings to differ between the two arms; you can observe it for now. It is not likely a problem related to cervical spine compression of the blood vessels. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation Ablation for Dialysis Patients
Atrial fibrillation ablation? Hello Doctor: I am a dialysis patient. Early on, dialysis caused atrial premature beats, which later progressed to atrial fibrillation. Despite medication treatment, the results were not satisfactory. Following my physician's recommendation, I u...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, during dialysis, if you experience discomfort, it may be related to atrial fibrillation. It might be necessary to monitor your heart during dialysis or arrange for a 24-hour Holter monitor to track your current heart rhythm status for further evaluation. Changhua Hospital ...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Fibrillation Ablation for Dialysis Patients
Understanding Heart Health: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Medical consultation Hello, doctor! I often experience pale lips, occasional chest tightness and pain, and I have woken up suddenly while sleeping due to a sensation of my heart skipping beats and difficulty breathing. My heart rate is quite fast, often around 145 beats per minut...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the outpatient clinic for an examination to understand what the issue is. Knowing the problem is essential to determine whether it may worsen. Ping An Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Heart Health: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding the Impact of Heat Exhaustion on Heart Rate and Health
Inquiry Consultation Hello Dr. He, Yesterday (July 24), I felt unwell with symptoms including sweating, fatigue, low-grade fever, a dull headache, and an increased heart rate. I measured my heart rate with a blood pressure monitor, which peaked at 99 beats per minute, and throug...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the heart rate is regulated by the brain based on the body's needs at the time. Not only heatstroke, but any physical discomfort can potentially cause an increased heart rate, especially when the body is relatively dehydrated. The heart needs to beat faster to meet th...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Heat Exhaustion on Heart Rate and Health
Understanding Echocardiogram Results: When to Seek a Second Opinion
Echocardiogram Hello Doctor: This is the echocardiogram M-MODE data I had a year ago before undergoing cardiac ablation surgery: M-MODE DATA: - Aortic Valve Opening (mm): (15-26) - Interventricular Septum (mm): 8 (6-10) - Aortic Root (mm): 22 (20-39) - Left Ventricular Post...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
We recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician to determine if additional treatment is necessary. Thank you, and we wish you good health![Read More] Understanding Echocardiogram Results: When to Seek a Second Opinion
Sudden Heart Racing During Naptime: Should You Be Concerned?
During my lunch break, I felt a sudden increase in my heart rate while sleeping on my side? Hello, Doctor. I consulted you a while ago regarding my VPC issues. A few days ago, I had a second Holter monitor test, and the results were completely normal with no issues related to VPC...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, we are human and it's inevitable to occasionally experience some physical discomfort. Abnormal heartbeats such as VPCs (ventricular premature contractions) may occur more or less frequently, but they do not necessarily lead to organ damage or an increased risk of sudd...[Read More] Sudden Heart Racing During Naptime: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Myocardial Perfusion Reports: What Do the Results Mean?
Myocardial Perfusion Medical Report The results of this report indicate that there are issues with the heart. The Tl-201 myocardial perfusion SPECT study shows mixed myocardial scarring with ischemia in the mid to basal inferolateral wall and mid to basal inferior wall. Additiona...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
It is recommended that you discuss the above situation with your attending physician to determine if further treatment is necessary. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Myocardial Perfusion Reports: What Do the Results Mean?
Understanding Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency After Heart Procedures
Tricuspid valve insufficiency? Hello, doctor: Last July, I underwent catheter ablation for paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, and the procedure was successful. At that time, a cardiac ultrasound was performed, and everything was normal. Although this past year, my heart rat...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the cause of tricuspid valve insufficiency is unknown, so let's just monitor it. As for whether to take medication, it's up to you; if you feel more comfortable taking it, then go ahead. Otherwise, simple observation should suffice. I believe the medication is in...[Read More] Understanding Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency After Heart Procedures
Understanding Aortic Regurgitation: Medication, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Aortic regurgitation You have been diagnosed with moderate aortic regurgitation (AR) for about 5-6 years and have generally adhered to your medication regimen as prescribed. However, you occasionally experience mild chest discomfort and pain, and have been advised against receivi...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the medication is for mild coronary artery stenosis and high cholesterol issues. Aortic regurgitation is generally monitored, as there are currently no effective treatment medications. Sarcopenia and aortic regurgitation are not directly related. I'm not sure how smal...[Read More] Understanding Aortic Regurgitation: Medication, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
How Often Should You Get a Heart Ultrasound? Understanding Your Reports
How often should a cardiac ultrasound be performed (and how to interpret the cardiac ultrasound report)? Hello, Doctor. I have two echocardiogram reports that are about two months apart. 1. In one of the reports, the LAD (19-40mm): 43. Does this indicate left atrial enlargement...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, follow-up should be done at most once a year; it should be a measurement error. A difference of two months is significant. Undergoing valve surgery will not eliminate premature beats, and no one undergoes surgery for such mild issues. Valve repair surgery does not involve ...[Read More] How Often Should You Get a Heart Ultrasound? Understanding Your Reports
Understanding Tricuspid Valve Issues: Repair vs. Replacement Options
Issues related to tricuspid valve replacement? Hello Dr. Wu, My family member has recently encountered issues with the tricuspid valve. The doctor mentioned that if it can be repaired, it will be repaired; if not, it will be replaced. However, the tone regarding the possibility...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Issues with the tricuspid valve are typically first treated with repair surgery; if the results are unsatisfactory, then a prosthetic valve replacement may be considered.[Read More] Understanding Tricuspid Valve Issues: Repair vs. Replacement Options