Managing Cardiovascular Medications: Side Effects and Concerns
Cardiovascular and medication issues? I have been taking Metoprolol for over two years. Recently, for more than a month, I reduced my dosage by half a pill, and my blood pressure has been controlled at around 110-120/70-80. Two years ago, when I started taking Metoprolol, I didn&...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you! Wishing you good health![Read More] Managing Cardiovascular Medications: Side Effects and Concerns
Should You See a Doctor for Low Heart Rate and Fatigue?
Heart rate issues Recently, my Apple Watch has recorded my heart rate while sitting or lying down to be around 50-70 beats per minute (when I am not asleep), and I feel fatigued and drowsy. I am currently taking psychiatric medications (anti-anxiety medications and SSRIs). Is it ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
A normal heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. If there is a noticeable decrease in heart rate, it is advisable to go to the hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) examination.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Low Heart Rate and Fatigue?
Understanding Heart Symptoms: Sleep Issues and Mitral Valve Prolapse
Discomfort in the heart? Hello, doctor. Whenever I don't sleep well, I wake up feeling an itch in my left chest, which is where my heart is, and I easily experience palpitations, chest tightness, and anxiety. Not sleeping well means going to bed very late. Just as I'm a...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it seems you are experiencing post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), commonly referred to as long COVID. I also had lingering symptoms for several months after my diagnosis, but it will get better, so don't worry. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your...[Read More] Understanding Heart Symptoms: Sleep Issues and Mitral Valve Prolapse
Understanding Panic Disorder and Health Anxiety in Cardiac Patients
Panic disorder? Hypochondriasis? Hello, Director He. I had a stent placed twelve years ago, and all follow-up examinations (including carotid ultrasounds) have shown no significant issues as long as I take my medication regularly, regardless of any other discomfort I experienced ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, panic disorder caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction can be managed with medication. Don't worry. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Panic Disorder and Health Anxiety in Cardiac Patients
Understanding Coffee-Induced Shortness of Breath in Asthma Patients
Drinking coffee can trigger asthma? Since I just entered the workforce, I started drinking coffee, but it causes me to experience shortness of breath and anxiety (I have asthma). I'm not sure what the reason is. Thank you, doctor.
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it might be due to caffeine, so perhaps you should avoid drinking it. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Coffee-Induced Shortness of Breath in Asthma Patients
Understanding High Heart Rate: Anxiety or Arrhythmia?
Tachycardia Hello doctor, my resting heart rate has always been on the higher side, around 80 to 100. Since last month, I've been experiencing palpitations and unexplained anxiety. I have been taking Xanax prescribed by a psychiatrist, and a cardiology examination showed nor...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is possible that your symptoms are caused by anxiety leading to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Don't worry, Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding High Heart Rate: Anxiety or Arrhythmia?
Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Nervous palpitations Hello, since last month, I have suddenly experienced palpitations and anxiety, accompanied by occasional symptoms such as the urge to swallow, belching, a sensation of something stuck in my throat, and numbness in my hands and feet. I went to the emergency ro...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Due to your young age and lack 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 to adju...[Read More] Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Sudden Heart Discomfort: Insights from a Cardiologist
I experienced a sudden strong sensation in my heart; I would like to consult a physician for their opinion? Hello Doctor, I am a university student with no history of heart disease or relevant family history. I have a habit of staying up late and experience symptoms of anxiety. T...
Dr. Cai Guiqin Reply:
I recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. Wishing you good health. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Sudden Heart Discomfort: Insights from a Cardiologist
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat After Naps: Causes and Concerns
Cardiac issues Hello, Director He: For the past two days, I have experienced a faster heartbeat and feelings of anxiety upon waking from my afternoon nap. There was even one instance where my heart raced to the point that it felt like an earthquake. I have had blood tests and an ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you are too anxious and have developed autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat After Naps: Causes and Concerns
Should I Ignore My Symptoms or Seek Further Heart Evaluation?
Should we ignore it or proceed with further examination? Hello, doctor! I am 30 years old, have a regular exercise habit, and do not have hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. I have been smoking for over 15 years. I have anxiety and panic disorder due to discomfort in my he...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, I believe that observation is sufficient, but if you feel anxious and uneasy, you can consider getting a CT scan to check your blood vessels. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Should I Ignore My Symptoms or Seek Further Heart Evaluation?
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:
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 Blood Pressure Fluctuations, Tinnitus, and Panic Disorders
Blood pressure fluctuations, tinnitus, and panic disorder? Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to advise me. A few months ago, I experienced an increase in blood pressure due to taking traditional Chinese medicine, which triggered a recurrence of my panic disorder (I have...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, first of all, you do not have hypertension, and blood pressure fluctuations are normal, especially since you are aware of your panic issues, which can make the fluctuations more pronounced. In this situation, a daytime systolic blood pressure of 130-140, with a usual range...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations, Tinnitus, and Panic Disorders
Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions: Causes and Management Strategies
Hello doctor, how can I determine whether my atrial premature contractions are due to abnormal electrical discharges from a specific area in the atrium or caused by autonomic nervous system dysregulation leading to erratic signals, especially after a long period of time? Cardiolo...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Atrial premature contractions are not the same as atrial fibrillation; they can occur in normal individuals. Myoclonic jerks can also manifest in the myocardium. Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or ex...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions: Causes and Management Strategies
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: When to Seek Cardiac Evaluation
Heart rate issues Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about my condition. For the past few days, whenever I stand, my heart rate exceeds 120 beats per minute. I have previously consulted a cardiologist and underwent an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram, both of which s...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages. It is recommended to adjust your daily routine and engage in regular exercise. However, if symptoms persist, it is a...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: When to Seek Cardiac Evaluation
Understanding Chest Pain: Insights from Cardiology and Exercise Testing
Chest pain Hello Dr. Huang, I have been experiencing chronic chest pain and intermittent palpitations, so I returned for an exercise electrocardiogram (ECG) examination. During the exercise, I felt fine, but after finishing, I went to have a meal and experienced several episodes...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: The results of the exercise electrocardiogram show no significant cardiac ischemia. For paroxysmal palpitations, a 24-hour Holter monitor or a wearable device (such as an Apple Watch) can be used to record the electrocardiogram to check for arrhythmias. Many non-cardiac ca...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Insights from Cardiology and Exercise Testing
Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Treatment Options and Insights
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) Issues Hello, Director! Last April, I inquired about VPC-related issues. Three years ago, I underwent a catheter ablation (initially through a vein, but switched to an artery midway). However, my arrhythmia returned afterward. The previou...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, to be honest, you are prone to VPCs, but they may cause you increased anxiety. I would suggest actively addressing this, possibly with another round of catheter ablation or increasing your medication dosage. I recommend seeking a third opinion from another medical center i...[Read More] Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Treatment Options and Insights
Chest Tightness, Dizziness, and Heart Discomfort: When to Seek Help?
Chest tightness, dizziness, and discomfort in the heart? Hello Doctor, since the beginning of the year 111, I have been experiencing chest tightness. I have a long history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and have undergone an upper gastrointestinal examination and endos...
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 consumption of caffeinated beverages. It is advis...[Read More] Chest Tightness, Dizziness, and Heart Discomfort: When to Seek Help?
Understanding Chest Pain: Is It Angina or Anxiety?
Angina pectoris, palpitations Hello, Doctor. First, thank you for taking the time to respond to me. For the past month, I have frequently felt discomfort around my heart. Sometimes, I get slightly short of breath just from climbing stairs (I don’t usually exercise). The pain vari...
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 Chest Pain: Is It Angina or Anxiety?
Understanding Chest Discomfort and Sleep Issues: A Cardiovascular Perspective
Chest tightness and inability to sleep? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the previous message being incomplete due to formatting issues on my phone. I would like to ask for your guidance again. Thank you. I would like to inquire about what type of heart disease my condition may fal...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the coronary catheterization shows 10% blockage, which does not affect functional capacity. Overall, there seems to be no cardiac issues; it is likely related to anxiety and autonomic nervous system dysregulation. It is recommended to visit a psychosomatic medicine special...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort and Sleep Issues: A Cardiovascular Perspective
Why Inderal May Be Losing Its Effectiveness Over Time
I gradually feel that Inderal is becoming ineffective? Hello Doctor: I have mitral valve prolapse and tricuspid valve prolapse, and I occasionally experience arrhythmias and increased heart rate due to anxiety. During my student years, I first took Inderal (I am now in my fifties...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, please discuss adjusting your medication with your attending physician. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Why Inderal May Be Losing Its Effectiveness Over Time