Post-Ablation Concerns: Managing Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence
Electrocautery-related issues? Hello, Director. I would like to ask for your advice. I am a patient with atrial fibrillation. On the 15th of this month, I underwent catheter ablation surgery at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. The doctor informed me after the surgery that it was...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, there is no need to go to the emergency room. It seems to be a minor issue that is not related to your current condition. Try not to worry too much; it is likely just a recurrence similar to before. I recommend following up with your original physician for monitoring. Take...[Read More] Post-Ablation Concerns: Managing Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence
Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Options
Atrial fibrillation Hello, Doctor. About six years ago, I started a habit of jogging. Later, I noticed that my heart would race and beat irregularly after running. I went to a cardiologist and was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. I underwent 3D mapping and ablation, but I have...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Due to the recurrence of atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation, it is recommended to first undergo a 24-hour Holter monitor to determine if there is a recurrence, and then adjust the medication accordingly.[Read More] Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Options
Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Ongoing Symptoms and Treatment Options
Atrial fibrillation Hello, Doctor. About six years ago, I started a habit of jogging. Later, I noticed that my heart would race and beat irregularly after running. I went to a cardiologist and was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. I underwent 3D mapping and ablation, but I have...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
If your symptoms have recently worsened, it is recommended to go to the hospital for a 24-hour Holter monitor test to determine if there is a recurrence of atrial fibrillation.[Read More] Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Ongoing Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Heart Ultrasound Calcium Scores: What You Need to Know
I would like to inquire about the issue of calcification in this echocardiogram? Hello Dr. He, my family member recently underwent a cardiac ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned a calcification issue. However, the report is filled with medical jargon, and I would like to know if ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the total calcium score of the heart, also known as the coronary artery calcium score, refers to vascular calcification, similar to the hardening of pipes in a house. The report indicates calcification of the mitral valve and aortic valve, which is akin to the hardening of...[Read More] Understanding Heart Ultrasound Calcium Scores: What You Need to Know
Post-Catheter Ablation Concerns: Understanding Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence
Post-procedure issues following cardiac catheterization and cryoablation? Hello, about 12 years ago, I was diagnosed with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, occurring about 1-2 times every three months. I took Dronedarone for 10 years, and after 8.5 years, I stopped experiencing epi...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: It is quite common for patients to experience recurrent atrial arrhythmias within three months after catheter cryoablation for atrial fibrillation, with an incidence of about 40%. This is generally believed to be related to the inflammatory response of the atrial tissue po...[Read More] Post-Catheter Ablation Concerns: Understanding Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Medication, Side Effects, and Treatment Options
Cardiac issues Hello Dr. Huang, I have severe arrhythmia and have undergone X-rays and echocardiograms, both of which showed no issues (the heart is not enlarged and structurally normal). However, during a 24-hour Holter monitor test, my heart rate spiked to about 300 beats per m...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: Atrial fibrillation indeed increases the risk of stroke, and the use of anticoagulants should be considered based on established criteria. We use the CHA2DS2-VASc score for assessment: for a 45-year-old male without heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, or a history of st...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Medication, Side Effects, and Treatment Options
Is It Safe for Heart Patients to Get the COVID Vaccine?
Am I suitable for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in my situation? Dear Director He, Thank you for your response last year regarding the issue of myocardial bridge and medication. However, at the beginning of this year, I experienced cardiac arrhythmia with rapid heartbeats and w...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, there is no causal relationship between myocardial bridge and atrial fibrillation. Long-term use of certain medications may have adverse effects on the thyroid and lungs, which can vary from person to person. Generally, long-term use is considered to be over a year. Engagi...[Read More] Is It Safe for Heart Patients to Get the COVID Vaccine?
Can I Stop Taking Apixaban? Understanding Long-Term Use for Vascular Issues
Abiciclib Recently, my doctor prescribed Abiraterone for me, possibly because I was diagnosed with vasculitis. However, recent tests indicate that the vasculitis seems to be improving. I would like to know if taking this medication means I have to continue it for life. I tend to ...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, Apixaban is a new type of anticoagulant medication. Currently, there are two indications for its use: 1. It is used for adults with non-valvular atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke and systemic embolism. It is typically prescribed for patients with a high stroke risk sco...[Read More] Can I Stop Taking Apixaban? Understanding Long-Term Use for Vascular Issues
Should My 81-Year-Old Father Get the AZ Vaccine? A Heart Health Dilemma
Receiving the AZ vaccine feels like a difficult choice, almost like a death sentence vaccine? My father, who is 81 years old, has been suffering from diabetes for nearly forty years. For the past ten years, he has been taking cardiovascular medications (Berkley) due to shortness ...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your concerns about COVID-19 vaccination, it is honestly difficult to provide a definitive answer. Based on your father's medication, 1. The concurrent use of antiplatelet agents (such as Clopidogrel) and anticoagulants (such as Apixaban) suggests that, in a...[Read More] Should My 81-Year-Old Father Get the AZ Vaccine? A Heart Health Dilemma
Understanding PVCs: When to Worry About Heart Rhythm Irregularities
Skipped beats, arrhythmia Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask if I should be concerned about the sensation of missed beats due to frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) that occur daily. I have been experiencing this condition for about a year and have consulted both a...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the sensation of missed beats due to premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) is often not a cause for concern. A significant part of it is related to anxiety; the more you think about it, the more frequent they may occur. It is unlikely that you will suddenly faint, so t...[Read More] Understanding PVCs: When to Worry About Heart Rhythm Irregularities
Post-Cardiac Catheterization: Understanding Rapid Heartbeat Concerns
Post-cardiac catheterization, it is possible for the heart rate to increase? Hello, doctor. My father experienced rapid heartbeat and discomfort at home two years ago, which led to an emergency visit. He was diagnosed with arrhythmia and underwent catheter ablation. Due to the un...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding the question "Can heart rate be too fast after cardiac catheterization?" Your father experienced palpitations and sweating due to paroxysmal tachyarrhythmia two years ago and underwent electrophysiological study and radiofrequency ablation. From your wo...[Read More] Post-Cardiac Catheterization: Understanding Rapid Heartbeat Concerns
Understanding Heart Issues: PVCs, AFib, and Related Symptoms Explained
Cardiac problem consultation? Dear Dr. He, I have some heart-related issues I would like to consult you about: 1. Could you please explain the difference between "premature ventricular contractions" (PVCs) and "atrial fibrillation" (AFib), and how can one di...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, ventricular premature contractions and atrial fibrillation can be identified through an electrocardiogram (ECG). Generally, without testing, it is difficult for the average person to distinguish gastroesophageal reflux, which may trigger arrhythmias, palpitations, and trem...[Read More] Understanding Heart Issues: PVCs, AFib, and Related Symptoms Explained
Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Concerns About Stopping Heart Medication
The doctor discontinued the medication despite the arrhythmia? My father is 90 years old and has been dealing with arrhythmia for ten years. He stopped his medication last year, which led to a ventricular tachycardia episode that required an emergency visit. After being discharge...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the doctor is concerned that the medication overdose may cause a slow heart rate, leading to dizziness and temporary vision loss. If your heart rate remains above 100 beats per minute, please visit the outpatient clinic for medication adjustment. Changhua Hospital cares ab...[Read More] Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Concerns About Stopping Heart Medication
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Treatment Options and Concerns
Atrial Fibrillation Treatment During the Lunar New Year, I experienced episodes of my heart suddenly beating very fast and then very slow, irregularly. I later went to the emergency room, where the doctor diagnosed me with atrial fibrillation, with a heart rate of about 150 beats...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry about "the treatment of atrial fibrillation," based on your description, this is your first experience, and you have returned to normal rhythm, which indicates that it is paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. If there are no underlying cardiopulm...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation Treatment: Managing Irregular Heartbeats
Atrial fibrillation treatment Hello, Doctor: During the New Year period, I experienced episodes of my heart suddenly beating very fast and then very slow, irregularly. I later went to the emergency room, where the doctor diagnosed me with atrial fibrillation, with a heart rate of...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, long-term excessive use of certain medications can affect the thyroid gland. You are currently in the acute phase, and the medication regimen is likely to be adjusted later. The reasons for thyroid dysfunction may not always be detectable through tests. Hyperthyroidism can...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Fibrillation Treatment: Managing Irregular Heartbeats
Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Understanding Irregular Heartbeats After Ablation
After undergoing four catheter ablations, the heart rate still occasionally fluctuates between being fast and irregular? Hello Dr. He, I have been experiencing atrial fibrillation due to arrhythmia and have undergone multiple catheter ablation procedures at the hospital. However...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the limited information I can provide. I recommend returning for a follow-up and discussing thoroughly with your attending physician to seek a mutually acceptable treatment plan. Wishing you peace and good health. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Managing Atrial Fibrillation: Understanding Irregular Heartbeats After Ablation
Understanding Atrial Flutter and Supraventricular Tachycardia: Your Questions Answered
Arrhythmia Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing palpitations (premature beats and rapid heart rate) since around May of last year. Initially, it occurred a few times a week, but later it became a daily occurrence (mainly at night, in episodes lasting several hours). During tim...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Atrial flutter and supraventricular tachycardia are primarily diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG). If the ECG is not conclusive, an electrophysiological study may be performed. In terms of treatment, medication is typically the first line of management, along with lifest...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Flutter and Supraventricular Tachycardia: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Rapid Heartbeats: Causes and Concerns Explained
Irregular heartbeat? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about something. Sometimes when I fall asleep and suddenly get startled awake by my phone ringing, I feel my heart racing rapidly, pounding in my chest. However, when I check my pulse, it feels normal, and this sensation...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, this is not caused by atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, but rather a sudden excitement of the autonomic nervous system, resulting in a stronger heartbeat. It's similar to the feeling of having a crush on someone, often described as "butterflies in t...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeats: Causes and Concerns Explained
Managing Atrial Fibrillation and Premature Ventricular Contractions: Dental Care Tips
Arrhythmia Hello, doctor. I have a question regarding atrial fibrillation. I am taking Rytmonorm and not on anticoagulants. Recently, I need dental treatment for a crown, which will involve anesthesia. Is it safe to proceed with the dental treatment under these circumstances? Add...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you can continue the treatment for ventricular premature contractions. The dosage of Concor is quite low and should not cause any issues unless you have asthma, in which case you should monitor your breathing. Ventricular premature contractions are not likely to cause head...[Read More] Managing Atrial Fibrillation and Premature Ventricular Contractions: Dental Care Tips
Do You Always Need Anticoagulants for Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation Hello, if someone has atrial fibrillation, is it necessary to take anticoagulant medication, or is it determined based on the results of an echocardiogram?
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, to assess the risk of stroke, a score of 0 means no need for medication; otherwise, taking medication may be better than not taking it, as not doing so could increase the risk of stroke. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Do You Always Need Anticoagulants for Atrial Fibrillation?