Understanding Inverted T-Waves and Low Blood Pressure Effects on Heart Health
Could you please explain whether an inverted T wave on an electrocardiogram and low blood pressure can lead to issues such as myocardial ischemia? (Forwarded from the Director's mailbox) Dear Director of the Department of Health, I would like to inquire about the following:...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
1. The presence of inverted T waves (or negative T waves) on an electrocardiogram does not have diagnostic specificity; in other words, many factors can cause this phenomenon, ranging from the nonspecific inverted T waves that are more common in women to true myocardial ischemia....[Read More] Understanding Inverted T-Waves and Low Blood Pressure Effects on Heart Health
Understanding High Blood Pressure: Essential Tests to Identify Causes
High blood pressure? Hello Doctor: I have a slim build and I exercise regularly, but I have consistently high blood pressure, which has recently increased to 150/100 (heart rate 67). I recently went to the hospital for tests on triglycerides, total cholesterol, and fasting glucos...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Hypertension is influenced by multiple factors, including constitution, age, occupation, stress, lifestyle, exercise habits, and dietary conditions. Additionally, the presence of other health factors, such as blood glucose levels, kidney function abnormalities, or other specific ...[Read More] Understanding High Blood Pressure: Essential Tests to Identify Causes
Stenting vs. Bypass Surgery: Which is Better for Cardiovascular Blockage?
Cardiovascular obstruction Hello Doctor: My friend's father has diabetes and has recently been diagnosed with cardiovascular blockage. The doctor has suggested either stenting or bypass surgery. I would like to ask: 1. Which has a lower recurrence rate, stenting or bypass su...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Traditionally, diabetic patients with multiple complex cardiovascular diseases tend to undergo bypass surgery. However, due to advancements in drug-eluting stents and catheter-based interventional treatments, stenting may also be considered. The decision should be based on indivi...[Read More] Stenting vs. Bypass Surgery: Which is Better for Cardiovascular Blockage?
Understanding Subcutaneous Lumps After IV Insertion: When to Seek Help
Regarding vascular nodules? Doctor, my wife recently had surgery, and after the IV was removed, we noticed a hard lump about half a centimeter in size near the injection site on her arm. It appears to be close to a subcutaneous blood vessel and has a color similar to a bruise (li...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
It should not be a vascular lump; if you're concerned, you can consult a plastic surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Subcutaneous Lumps After IV Insertion: When to Seek Help
Understanding Types of Mitral Valve Prolapse and Their Implications
Types of Mitral Valve Prolapse I'm sorry, doctor, but I have another question... The doctor said that my "mitral valve prolapse with insufficiency" is caused by the anterior leaflet being too long, and I wonder if this is related to "asymmetric mitral valve pr...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Mitral valve prolapse typically involves the prolapse of the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve (which consists of an anterior and a posterior leaflet). You may refer to previous responses regarding "mitral valve prolapse" for more information.[Read More] Understanding Types of Mitral Valve Prolapse and Their Implications
Understanding the Severity of Valve Regurgitation: Key Factors and Impacts
I would like to inquire about the assessment of the degree of insufficiency? Doctors often assess the severity of regurgitation (valvular insufficiency) based on the percentage of blood flow reversal observed in echocardiography. However, other factors can also influence the dete...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
1. Yes! The degree of valve insufficiency is generally assessed based on the extent of blood regurgitation observed through color Doppler ultrasound. It is typically categorized into mild, moderate, and severe degrees, along with some hemodynamic calculations, such as the velocit...[Read More] Understanding the Severity of Valve Regurgitation: Key Factors and Impacts
Can Multivitamins Prevent Cardiovascular Disease? A Public Inquiry
Regarding the Health Department (Forwarded from the Presidential mailbox to the Director's mailbox) Hello, Mr. President. I would like to ask for your assistance. Currently, many people in our country are taking vitamins, and some doctors advocate that multivitamins can prev...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
In principle, "only taking vitamins" cannot prevent cardiovascular diseases, as these diseases are caused by multiple factors, including smoking, hypertension, diabetes, overwork, excessive stress, obesity, lack of exercise, high blood lipids, genetic predisposition, an...[Read More] Can Multivitamins Prevent Cardiovascular Disease? A Public Inquiry
Understanding Cardiovascular Health in Teenagers: Key Insights
Supplementary Information Hello: I apologize for not providing my personal information earlier. I do not smoke, do not drink alcohol, and I am currently 15 years old with no harmful habits. I hope the doctor can further address my questions.
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Hello: Most cardiovascular diseases are related to factors such as hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and smoking. Young individuals typically do not experience heart disease.[Read More] Understanding Cardiovascular Health in Teenagers: Key Insights
Understanding Blood Pressure Ranges: Normal to Severe Levels Explained
Could you please provide the latest blood pressure values from the Department of Health (forwarded from the Director's mailbox)? Here is a blood pressure classification table: - Normal: Systolic < 120 mmHg and Diastolic < 80 mmHg - Elevated: Systolic 120-129 mmHg and ...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
According to the guidelines from the Taiwan Society of Cardiology for hypertension treatment, the classification of blood pressure is as follows: Normal: <120 and <80 Prehypertension: 120-139 or 80-89 Stage 1 Hypertension: 140-159 or 90-99 Stage 2 Hypertension: ≥160...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Ranges: Normal to Severe Levels Explained
Understanding Variations in Echocardiogram Results: What You Need to Know
Recently, I had two ultrasounds, and the results were different each time? Hello Doctor: I hope you can help me with my concerns. In December of last year, an ultrasound at a small clinic revealed mild mitral valve prolapse, pulmonary regurgitation, and tricuspid valve prolapse. ...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
1. You can discuss your concerns with your physician regarding the results from both tests. 2. The degree of incompetence has objective standards, but there are also subjective components involved. 3. Without your basic information such as age, gender, smoking status, alcohol...[Read More] Understanding Variations in Echocardiogram Results: What You Need to Know
Monitoring Coagulation Levels After Heart Valve Surgery: A Patient's Guide
Coagulation index Hello Doctor: Due to rheumatic heart disease causing mitral valve stenosis, I underwent balloon valvuloplasty at the end of last year, and I currently have follow-up appointments every three months at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. A friend recommended a heal...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Yes, you can get tested nearby, and if you prefer, there are hospitals with cardiology specialists available as well![Read More] Monitoring Coagulation Levels After Heart Valve Surgery: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, NYHA Classification, and Military Eligibility
Congenital Mitral Valve Prolapse Hello Doctor, I have recently been experiencing symptoms such as frequent dizziness, chest tightness, and irritability (which started two years ago but have increased in frequency lately). I underwent an echocardiogram at Kaohsiung Medical Univers...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
1. Mild prolapse and regurgitation do not meet the criteria for alternative military service. 2. Typically, your symptoms are not significantly related to the heart itself. 3. You may refer to my previous responses regarding mitral valve prolapse.[Read More] Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, NYHA Classification, and Military Eligibility
Managing Heart Health During Hospitalization: A Patient's Dilemma
Consult a physician? Dr. Bu: My father was hospitalized two days ago due to some fluid accumulation and inflammation in his lungs, and he is currently under the care of the pulmonology department. He has had a cardiac pacemaker for nearly ten years and has also been dealing with ...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
If you still have questions, please discuss your condition and treatment options with your attending physician.[Read More] Managing Heart Health During Hospitalization: A Patient's Dilemma
How Long After Heart Stent Surgery Can You Fly?
How long after getting a stent placed in the heart can a person fly? Hello Doctor: How long after having a stent placed in the heart can a patient fly (to the United States)? The patient is 70 years old and has hypertension and diabetes. Should they wait until a certain period? T...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
After the placement of a stent, it is generally safe to fly or travel once you are stable! This usually refers to a period of two weeks to one month afterward. It is advisable to consult your attending physician for their opinion, but remember to take your medications on schedule...[Read More] How Long After Heart Stent Surgery Can You Fly?
Understanding Premature Ventricular Contractions: Risks and Treatment Options
Ventricular premature contraction (VPC) Hello Doctor: I recently had a health check-up at my company, and the result of my electrocardiogram showed "ventricular premature contractions." Occasionally, I experience chest pain near my left ribcage, especially when lying do...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Typically, premature ventricular contractions in young individuals are just an extra heartbeat and do not have significant effects. Pain near the left rib cage may be due to muscle or nerve soreness in that area. If there are concerns, it is advisable to consult a physician.[Read More] Understanding Premature Ventricular Contractions: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Coronary Atherosclerosis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Risks
Autologous coronary atherosclerosis My mother was found to have high cholesterol and triglycerides during a health check-up, so she visited a cardiologist a few days ago. The doctor performed a standard electrocardiogram (ECG) and, according to my mother, mentioned that there see...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
The case issues need to be discussed with the physician regarding the patient's condition and concerns.[Read More] Understanding Coronary Atherosclerosis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Risks
Understanding Carotid Artery Sounds: Are They a Sign of Vascular Issues?
Please ask your question? The carotid artery in the neck producing a "thumping" sound that disappears when pressure is applied may indicate an abnormality in the cerebral vasculature. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and app...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
I cannot understand your question. How can you determine that the sound you hear is coming from the carotid artery? If there are any issues, you may consider visiting a neurology clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Carotid Artery Sounds: Are They a Sign of Vascular Issues?
Understanding Right Atrial Enlargement and Its Connection to Ventricular Septal Defect
Right atrial enlargement Hello Doctor: I have a congenital condition known as ventricular septal defect. Recently, during a company health check, the electrocardiogram report indicated "right atrial enlargement" and "myocardial ischemia." The physician's ...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
In principle, it is primarily due to the effects of ventricular septal defect. However, is there right atrial enlargement, or is it left atrial and left ventricular enlargement? These findings from your examination can be discussed with your physician to clarify your concerns.[Read More] Understanding Right Atrial Enlargement and Its Connection to Ventricular Septal Defect
Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
When the heart rate increases, there may be a brief pause? Thank you, Doctor Bu, for your response! I appreciate it! First question: I heard from the doctor that this brief pause in my heartbeat is not serious, which gives me a little reassurance. However, I would like to ask i...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
1. Most cases are usually not life-threatening. 2. When we begin to engage in activities, our nervous system also becomes activated, which increases the likelihood of experiencing ectopic beats. 3. You should consult your physician regarding your situation.[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes and Management Strategies
When the heart rate increases, it may pause momentarily? Hello, Doctor. Since the first time I experienced a brief pause in my heartbeat, I started taking three doses of antiarrhythmic medication daily. After starting the medication, I haven't had any more episodes of the pa...
Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Occasional pauses in heartbeat are often benign premature contractions (or early beats) and usually do not require much concern. Many people experience elevated blood pressure at the hospital due to anxiety, so it is advisable to rely on blood pressure measurements taken at home....[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes and Management Strategies