Is Caffeine Causing My Heart Rhythm Issues? Understanding the Connection
Suspected caffeine-induced arrhythmia? Hello Doctor, I have mild mitral valve regurgitation. When I feel uncomfortable, I take half a dose of antiarrhythmic medication to relieve the symptoms. I enjoy drinking coffee and try to limit my caffeine intake to 150-200 mg per day. In t...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Mild mitral valve prolapse does not cause these symptoms. Given your young age and lack of chronic diseases, your risk of heart disease is low. Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive consumptio...[Read More] Is Caffeine Causing My Heart Rhythm Issues? Understanding the Connection
Understanding NT-proBNP Levels and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Impact on Heart Health
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) Hello, doctor. I often experience dizziness, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, and shortness of breath after climbing two flights of stairs, which is why I consulted a cardiologist. I had some blood tests done, and my NT-proBNP (PBNP) level was 20.4,...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Your NT pro BNP level is very low and does not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of heart failure. The NT pro BNP levels are not related to the immunoassay values of thyroid-stimulating hormone.[Read More] Understanding NT-proBNP Levels and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Impact on Heart Health
Does Wearing Hearing Aids Affect ECG Results During Testing?
Will wearing a hearing aid interfere with a static electrocardiogram (ECG)? Does not removing a hearing aid during a static electrocardiogram (ECG) affect the accuracy of the ECG results? Thank you for clarifying.
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
I cannot.[Read More] Does Wearing Hearing Aids Affect ECG Results During Testing?
Understanding Portable ECG Results: What Do They Mean for Your Heart?
Portable electrocardiogram (ECG) recording examination? The portable electrocardiogram results are as follows: Is this normal? 1. The basic rhythm is sinus rhythm with a ventricular rate range of 40-138 bpm, and an average rate of 670 bpm. 2. Rare ventricular premature contractio...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
The report indicates that there are no other issues aside from a few isolated atrial and ventricular premature contractions.[Read More] Understanding Portable ECG Results: What Do They Mean for Your Heart?
Understanding Your 24-Hour Holter Monitor Results: What They Mean for Your Heart Health
24-hour Holter monitor? Hello Doctor, here are the 24-hour electrocardiogram data I just asked you about: 1. The basic rhythm is sinus rhythm with a ventricular rate range of 40-138 bpm, and the average rate is 670 bpm. 2. Rare ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) - 2 sing...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
1. A heart rate of 40-138 bpm cannot have an average of 670 bpm; there must be an error in the reported numbers. 2. A few atrial and ventricular ectopic beats do not affect daily life and do not require medication or surgery.[Read More] Understanding Your 24-Hour Holter Monitor Results: What They Mean for Your Heart Health
Understanding Abnormal ECG Results: Next Steps for Heart Health
Abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) findings? Director, I would like to ask about my electrocardiogram report as follows, but my blood test for hs-Troponin-I is normal (0.0023 & 0.0037) and pO2 is 23. What additional tests do I need to undergo? Thank you! Normal sinus rhythm wit...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
If you are experiencing symptoms of chest tightness and have chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, or if you smoke, it is advisable to visit an outpatient clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal ECG Results: Next Steps for Heart Health
Unusual Pulsating Sensation in Chest After Heart Surgery: What to Know
After traditional open-heart surgery, a pulsating mass resembling a pulse was observed on the left side of the sternum? My father underwent traditional open-heart surgery in December last year for mitral valve replacement and tricuspid valve ring repair. Recently, he noticed a mo...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Based on your description, I am unable to determine what it is. I recommend that you visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed examination by the surgeon.[Read More] Unusual Pulsating Sensation in Chest After Heart Surgery: What to Know
Understanding Myocardial Perfusion Scan Results and Next Steps
Myocardial perfusion imaging Hello, I would like to ask if the following test results confirm any heart issues, and whether a cardiac catheterization is necessary? Thank you for your response, I really appreciate it. PROCEDURE: 63674 MYOCARDIAL PERFUSION SCAN WITH SPECT STUDY R...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
The report indicates mild myocardial ischemia; please discuss subsequent treatment with the outpatient physician.[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Perfusion Scan Results and Next Steps
Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Causes and Concerns
Blood pressure issues inquiry? Hello Doctor, I have a problem with valve regurgitation, as well as symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction and anxiety. My usual blood pressure is around 115/70 to 125/80. Previously, I experienced a sudden spike in blood pressure to 160/9...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Emotional anxiety, changes in weather, irregular routines, and insufficient sleep are among many factors that can affect blood pressure. Please adjust these lifestyle factors and incorporate regular exercise.[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions vs. Atrial Fibrillation Risks
Arrhythmia Hello Doctor, I usually carry a portable ECG monitor, and yesterday I experienced a brief episode lasting three minutes. I would like to ask the doctor whether this ECG shows more atrial premature contractions or atrial fibrillation. Is it dangerous? Thank you, Doctor....
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
This is atrial premature contraction, not atrial fibrillation, and it does not pose any significant life-threatening risk.[Read More] Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions vs. Atrial Fibrillation Risks
Understanding Your Echocardiogram Results: Key Insights for Heart Health
I would like to inquire about the results of the ultrasound report? Hello Doctor, I had a cardiac ultrasound on March 15 and reviewed the report on March 25. However, I translated some parts using the health insurance app and felt a bit concerned, so I am asking for clarification...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
The report indicates that, aside from mild tricuspid regurgitation, there is very mild aortic regurgitation and mitral regurgitation; all other cardiac structures and functions are normal.[Read More] Understanding Your Echocardiogram Results: Key Insights for Heart Health
Chest Discomfort with Numbness: When to See a Cardiologist?
Chest tightness accompanied by facial numbness, dental numbness, and left hand numbness? Hello Doctor: I started experiencing chest tightness and discomfort in December, and this month, along with the chest tightness, I began to have symptoms such as numbness in my left hand, num...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
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 consumption of caffeinated beverages. It is advis...[Read More] Chest Discomfort with Numbness: When to See a Cardiologist?
Important Medication Considerations for Patients Taking Kankun
Other precautions for using Kangken medication? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask about taking 5 mg of Kankun. If I have cold symptoms, what ingredients in over-the-counter medications should I be cautious about? Can I take Tylenol directly for headaches? If I have motion sickne...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
There are no significant interactions between Kankun, Panadol, and common cold medications.[Read More] Important Medication Considerations for Patients Taking Kankun
Understanding Symptoms of Heart Failure: Key Questions Answered
Symptoms of suspected heart failure? Hello, Doctor. I was diagnosed two years ago, and for the two months following that, I didn't rest properly, often only getting a little over 5 hours of sleep. A few times, I experienced shortness of breath while climbing stairs and talki...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
1. Based on your symptoms and examination reports, it is not heart failure. 2. Mild mitral valve prolapse is congenital and unrelated to heart failure. 3. No need for further action. 4. It is not. 5. If urination requires straining, it is advisable to consult a urologist,...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Heart Failure: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations After Stopping Medication
Blood pressure issues Hello, doctor. At the end of January, I had a blood pressure reading of 160/110 at the clinic, so the doctor prescribed the antihypertensive medication Amlodipine 5/40, which I took once daily for five days. After discussing with the doctor, I decided to sto...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
1. It is possible. 2. In May 2022, the Taiwan Society of Cardiology and the Taiwan Hypertension Society published guidelines that officially adjusted the definition of hypertension from 140/90 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg. It is recommended to measure blood pressure using "home blood...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations After Stopping Medication
Understanding Persistent Left Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Prolonged discomfort and mild pain in the left chest? At 32 years old, I have no bad habits such as smoking or drinking. Currently, I am taking medication for high blood pressure. Before starting the medication, my blood pressure was around 165/90, but now it is controlled to abo...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
If coronary artery disease is suspected, an exercise electrocardiogram or a nuclear medicine myocardial perfusion scan can be performed for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Left Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Heart Palpitations and Myocardial Infarction After Antihistamine Injection
The injection of "Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride" from Chang Gung has led to palpitations and myocardial infarction, and the pain has persisted for three years. I feel like I want to die? Antihistamine Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride has caused palpitations. Since I receiv...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Regarding your symptoms, it is recommended to visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Heart Palpitations and Myocardial Infarction After Antihistamine Injection
Understanding ST Segment Changes in ECG: Insights for Heart Health
Interpretation of ST Segment in Electrocardiogram (ECG) Hello Dr. Wu, I apologize for the interruption. I do not have hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. I am 172 cm tall and weigh 73 kg, and I usually have a habit of exercising. Recently, I have been recovering from APL a...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
To determine the presence of coronary artery disease, it is recommended to perform an exercise electrocardiogram, as a resting electrocardiogram cannot assess non-specific ST changes.[Read More] Understanding ST Segment Changes in ECG: Insights for Heart Health
Do I Need Antibiotics Before Dental Cleaning with Valve Regurgitation?
Valvular insufficiency Hello Doctor, I have mild to moderate mitral valve and aortic valve regurgitation. I would like to ask if I need to take antibiotics before going to the dentist for a teeth cleaning? Should I take them beforehand, afterward, or either way? Thank you, Doctor...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
You do not need to take antibiotics for prophylaxis unless you have had a prosthetic heart valve replacement, valve repair surgery, or a history of infective endocarditis.[Read More] Do I Need Antibiotics Before Dental Cleaning with Valve Regurgitation?
Understanding Persistent Palpitations After Allergy Shot: A Heart Health Concern
Severe palpitations throughout the day? Since I received an injection at Chang Gung (which I believe was an allergy shot), I have been experiencing daily palpitations, shortness of breath, and difficulty walking. My legs feel weak and cold, with icy soles, and I break out in cold...
Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
This does not seem like a symptom of heart failure, but I recommend that you visit the hospital outpatient department for an electrocardiogram and other tests.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Palpitations After Allergy Shot: A Heart Health Concern