Understanding Heart Health: Key Questions About Your Cardiovascular Checkup
Health Checkup Report Consultation Hello, Doctor. I have a few questions to ask. During a recent mountain climbing trip, I felt unwell, and the tour guide noticed that my blood oxygen level was low and my heart rate was high, suggesting that I go to the hospital for an examinatio...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
1. Chest pain can be classified as cardiac or non-cardiac. Cardiac chest pain, commonly known as angina, typically has the following characteristics: 1. It lasts for several minutes (2-10 minutes), is described as pressure-like, and may cause shortness of breath (like an elephant...[Read More] Understanding Heart Health: Key Questions About Your Cardiovascular Checkup
Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes and When to Seek Help
Cardiac issues Hello Doctor, I have recently been experiencing strong heartbeats while lying down at night, accompanied by a feeling of chest tightness. I also feel a pulling sensation in my chest that is somewhat painful, which seems to coincide with my heartbeat, and I can hear...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Chest pain can be classified as either cardiac or non-cardiac. Cardiac chest pain, commonly known as angina, typically has the following characteristics: 1. It lasts for several minutes (2-10 minutes), is described as pressure or tightness, and may cause shortness of breath (like...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: Causes and When to Seek Help
How to Differentiate Between Anxiety and Cardiovascular Issues in Chest Pain?
How can one distinguish whether chest tightness is due to emotional issues or cardiovascular problems? About a month ago, I started noticing a sensation of chest tightness. Here is a record of my medical visits: The next day, I went to a cardiology clinic for an electrocardiogram...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you might be overthinking it; it should be fine. Given that you've had multiple check-ups over the years with no issues, the likelihood of a heart problem is low. Try to relax and get out to exercise more. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] How to Differentiate Between Anxiety and Cardiovascular Issues in Chest Pain?
Uncertain Chest Pain: Understanding Heart Issues and Management
Chest pain (uncertain if it's cardiac) There has been a period of aching and stabbing pain (uncertain) in the upper middle part of my left chest, which comes and goes. Therefore, I went to see a cardiologist and underwent several tests (ultrasound and gastroscopy). The docto...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it should not be heart-related since many tests have shown no issues, so there's no need to worry. It may be caused by a muscular or neurological problem. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Uncertain Chest Pain: Understanding Heart Issues and Management
Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heart Issues
Arrhythmia? Earlier this year, I had an echocardiogram, and the doctor mentioned that I have mild mitral valve prolapse. I regularly play basketball and have a high level of physical activity (though I don't wear a fitness tracker during exercise, so I'm unsure of my he...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if you have no discomfort, you may observe for now. If you are still concerned, it would be advisable to visit a cardiology clinic for further examination. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heart Issues
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Solutions for Young Adults
Tachycardia Hello, doctor. I am currently 19 years old and have autonomic nervous system dysfunction and panic disorder. Before experiencing these symptoms, my heart rate was 85 beats per minute, but now during a panic attack, I experience palpitations, and my heart rate can incr...
Dr. Lin Jixiong Reply:
Tachycardia, defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute, is often referred to as "sinus tachycardia" and is usually benign. Factors such as stress, consumption of tea, alcohol, tobacco, coffee, hyperthyroidism, or heightened sympathetic or vagal nerve activi...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Solutions for Young Adults
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Left chest pain? Hello Doctor, my height/weight is 164 cm/52 kg. I underwent catheter ablation for supraventricular tachycardia at the age of 18, and my follow-up three years ago showed everything was fine. During the surgery, I was informed of mild mitral valve prolapse, but it ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it sounds like a neuromuscular issue that may be caused by exercise, anxiety, or cold weather, rather than a heart problem. It would be advisable to monitor the situation for now. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Managing Fast Heart Rate and Chest Pain: Key Questions for Your Cardiologist
Continuing from 151996? Dear Dr. He, Thank you for your previous response. I have a few more questions to ask you. During my follow-up appointment with the cardiologist on February 6, I was informed that my heart rate is still elevated (measured at 95 bpm the first time and 85 ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a blood pressure of 95/85 is slightly elevated, and medication adjustment may not be necessary. A reading of 90/50 is too low and could cause discomfort. Since you have had a cardiac ultrasound and a CTA with no issues, the likelihood of heart problems is extremely low. It...[Read More] Managing Fast Heart Rate and Chest Pain: Key Questions for Your Cardiologist
Managing Nighttime Chest Pain: Tips for Better Sleep and Heart Health
Chest pain and difficulty sleeping? Hello Doctor: For the past year and a half, I have been experiencing occasional burning pain in the center of my chest. At first, it happened only once every six months, but in the last two months, I can only hope it doesn't occur. I have ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you see a cardiologist for a thorough examination. Once it is confirmed that there are no issues, it may be related to gastroesophageal reflux or cardiovascular spasms. The doctor will prescribe relevant medications for further evaluation. Changhua H...[Read More] Managing Nighttime Chest Pain: Tips for Better Sleep and Heart Health
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Rapid heartbeat Doctor, I feel fine when resting, but I experience shortness of breath and my heart rate increases and becomes stronger when walking. I've measured my heart rate and it goes up to 130-140. Recently, I've noticed that these symptoms have become more frequ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, have you measured your blood pressure? Is it around 130-140? What about your heart rate? Do you usually exercise less? Do you have any pallor? Is there a possibility of anemia? It is advisable to visit a cardiologist for an examination. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Heart Palpitations: Insights on Anxiety and Sleep Patterns
The issue is in the text. Thank you, doctor, for reviewing it? Happy New Year, Doctor! I have two questions I would like to ask. I might have issues related to cardiac neurosis (autonomic nervous system) that could be triggered by my irregular sleep schedule and staying up late. ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, your neurological responses are more sensitive, and you are more aware of changes in your heart rate. We need to pay attention to arrhythmias rather than just the sensation of a racing heartbeat. Feeling an increased heart rate is not a disease; it indicates that your hear...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: Insights on Anxiety and Sleep Patterns
Can You Safely Use Viagra with Blood Pressure Medications?
Medication consultation I am currently taking antihypertensive medications (Cozaar 50mg and Concor 5mg) daily. Can I also take Viagra? If so, are there any potential side effects? Thank you!
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, it is possible for medications without interactions to be safe. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Can You Safely Use Viagra with Blood Pressure Medications?
Can You Safely Combine Blood Pressure Medications with Viagra?
Can medications be taken together? I have been taking antihypertensive medications (Cozaar 50mg and Diovan 160mg) daily. Can I also take Viagra or similar medications? If so, are there any side effects? Thank you!
Dr. Lin Jixiong Reply:
Hello: Please do not take this medication with blood pressure medications. Discuss the appropriate timing for medication with your cardiologist. Dr. Lin Chi-Hsiung.[Read More] Can You Safely Combine Blood Pressure Medications with Viagra?
Managing LDL Cholesterol: Essential Steps for Heart Health
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol My LDL levels over the past four years have been 141, 160, 130, and 138. Since my father passed away from a myocardial infarction at the age of 60, my doctor has advised me to start medication to lower my LDL to below 100. I would like to...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, for males over 45 years old with a family history, it is recommended to consider medication for blood pressure control if the reading is above 130. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Managing LDL Cholesterol: Essential Steps for Heart Health
Understanding Sudden Increased Heart Rate: Causes and Concerns
Sudden increase in heart rate? Dear Dr. He, Hello. In recent days, I have been experiencing cold symptoms (mild diarrhea, runny nose, chills, low-grade fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and a scratchy throat with a cough). I later consulted a traditional Chinese medicine p...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a common cold or taking cold medicine can lead to a sudden increase in heart rate. An elevated heart rate typically does not have adverse effects on the body. At night, when it is quiet, the sensation of a rapid heartbeat may feel more pronounced. The increased heart rate ...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Increased Heart Rate: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Premature Ventricular Contractions and Blood Pressure Concerns
Ventricular premature contractions, blood pressure? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a few questions. <My Medical History> I have a problem with autonomic nervous system dysregulation, and sometimes I suddenly feel anxious. My first panic attack occurred three years a...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, premature ventricular contractions are not a major issue, but they can cause palpitations and discomfort. Blood pressure measurements taken at the hospital are often higher; one single high reading does not necessarily indicate hypertension that requires medication. I do n...[Read More] Understanding Premature Ventricular Contractions and Blood Pressure Concerns
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Heart Issues or Anxiety?
Left chest pain? Hello Doctor, I am 179 cm tall, weigh 86 kg, and am 35 years old. I haven't exercised for a while. In mid-November, I experienced chest tightness and went to see a doctor. After performing an exercise electrocardiogram, the doctor noted abnormalities indicat...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, anxiety has triggered autonomic nervous system dysregulation, leading to poor appetite and sensations of breathlessness and sharp pain, which are generally not related to the heart. It is possible that this is due to neuropathic pain from the autonomic nervous system, as t...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Heart Issues or Anxiety?
Is Sudden Dizziness After Standing Up a Cause for Concern?
Suddenly standing up after squatting down? I would like to ask the doctor if it is possible for a brief sensation of palpitations to occur, which resolves shortly after standing up. Is this related to postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome or low blood pressure? Should I not b...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you are correct that it is related to orthostatic hypotension. There is no need to be overly anxious. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Is Sudden Dizziness After Standing Up a Cause for Concern?
Understanding Hypertension Diagnosis: Key Considerations and Guidelines
Diagnosis of Hypertension Dear Director, I have never had any hypertension-related inquiries or medical records. For health management, I have been visiting a traditional Chinese medicine clinic for a long time. On June 13, 2019, I participated in the annual employee health chec...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you are correct that a single health check report showing a blood pressure value above the reference range should not be used to diagnose hypertension. Medication can be deferred initially; however, in cases of undetermined hypertension, long-term use of antihypertensive m...[Read More] Understanding Hypertension Diagnosis: Key Considerations and Guidelines
Traveling to High Altitudes After Heart Stent Placement: Safety Tips and Considerations
Cardiac issues I had a myocardial infarction in early July and received a stent. During my follow-up appointment in early November, all my cholesterol levels were normal: Total Cholesterol: 115, HDL-C: 45, LDL-C: 55, TG: 97. My blood pressure and heart rate were also within norma...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, there should be no issues. The attending physician has examined your heart and confirmed that everything is fine for you to proceed. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Traveling to High Altitudes After Heart Stent Placement: Safety Tips and Considerations