Traveling with Heart Health: Tips for Long Flights and Medication Management
Long-distance flight Dear Dr. Huang, I would like to ask you a few questions. My mother is 57 years old and experienced slightly elevated blood pressure due to a cold at the end of last year. Following her family physician's advice, she started taking Concor 5 for treatment...
Dr. Huang Guosheng Reply:
Hello KK: If blood pressure is well controlled, long-distance flights or journeys do not pose a danger. However, it is important to pay attention to adjusting to time zone differences during long trips; if the adjustment is not managed well, there may be a possibility of elevated...[Read More] Traveling with Heart Health: Tips for Long Flights and Medication Management
Can Ginkgo Biloba Be Taken with Aspirin for Heart Health?
Can the same person take ginkgo biloba and aspirin? My mother is seventy-five years old and has hypertension and diabetes. The doctor has prescribed her a daily dose of aspirin every morning. Can I give her ginkgo biloba supplements? I have heard that ginkgo should not be taken s...
Dr. Lin Yongguo Reply:
To Vicky: A 75-year-old female patient with hypertension and diabetes. The focus of care should be on controlling blood pressure and diabetes. Administering one aspirin daily in the morning is a reasonable preventive treatment, aiming to reduce the risk of stroke or cardiovascula...[Read More] Can Ginkgo Biloba Be Taken with Aspirin for Heart Health?
Post-Bath Dizziness and Breathing Issues: Heart Health Concerns
Dizziness and difficulty breathing after taking a shower? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. I have symptoms of mitral valve prolapse, which often include chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, occasional breathing difficulties, arrhythmias, and dizzines...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Based on your symptoms, it is suggested that your low blood pressure may be related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction causing hyperventilation. It is recommended to slow down your breathing. You may consult a cardiologist for medication. Changhua Hospital cares about your w...[Read More] Post-Bath Dizziness and Breathing Issues: Heart Health Concerns
Convenient and Cost-Effective Ways to Obtain Hypertension Medications
Acquisition of Antihypertensive Medications Dear Doctor, I would like to ask how to conveniently, time-efficiently, and cost-effectively obtain antihypertensive medications. My boyfriend has experienced high blood pressure since high school, which has caused him dizziness. He ha...
Dr. Zhu Nianfeng Reply:
First, confirm the diagnosis of hypertension and check for any secondary causes of hypertension. It is recommended to consult a primary care physician or a cardiologist for diagnosis. If medication treatment is necessary, once blood pressure is stabilized with medication, you can...[Read More] Convenient and Cost-Effective Ways to Obtain Hypertension Medications
Understanding Low Blood Oxygen Levels: Risks and Recovery Strategies
What is low blood oxygen saturation? Is it dangerous? Hello! I have had mitral valve prolapse and ischemic heart disease for about seven or eight years. A few days ago, I suddenly had a persistent high fever that lasted for five days, reaching 40 degrees Celsius. In the emergency...
Dr. Lin Yongguo Reply:
What is blood oxygen saturation?: The amount of oxygen in the blood is expressed as a percentage. The standard values for a healthy individual are as follows: O2 saturation: 95-100%, PaO2: 70-100 mmHg (partial pressure of oxygen). These are normal values after inhaling ambient ai...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Oxygen Levels: Risks and Recovery Strategies
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Heart Health Concerns
Mitral valve prolapse Hello Doctor, I am a young woman with mitral valve prolapse and mild regurgitation. There is a slight backflow of blood, but overall, my heart function remains within normal limits. Recently, I have been experiencing sudden dizziness and prolonged chest pain...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
DEAR GIGI, the symptoms mentioned above are mostly caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction and are also related to mitral valve prolapse. It is advisable to use some medications for control and to visit a cardiology clinic for a detailed examination. Changhua Hospital is c...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Heart Health Concerns
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Treatment, and Blood Donation Concerns
Mitral valve prolapse Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you what mitral valve prolapse is and whether it can be cured. The doctor suspects that I may have this condition, but I have not yet had an echocardiogram. Currently, I am taking Inderal and have previously taken Xanax. How...
Dr. Huang Guosheng Reply:
Mitral valve prolapse is a congenital valvular abnormality that cannot be cured; it can only be managed by controlling the symptoms associated with the mitral valve. Methods to improve symptoms include medications such as Inderal, relaxation techniques, and stress management. If ...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Treatment, and Blood Donation Concerns
Do You Need an Echocardiogram for Chest Pain and Dizziness?
Cardiac issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about occasional discomfort and tightness in my left chest. I have had a chest X-ray that showed no abnormalities, and my blood pressure is within normal range. However, I have a history of fainting and experienced a sudden dro...
Dr. Zhuang Junbin Reply:
Hello: It may be mitral valve prolapse. Sincerely, Dr. Chuang Jun-bin, Cardiologist.[Read More] Do You Need an Echocardiogram for Chest Pain and Dizziness?
Understanding Slightly Elevated Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Concerns
Regarding slightly elevated blood pressure? Hello Doctor, I measured my blood pressure while sitting calmly and resting for five minutes, and I did this three times. My blood pressure was around 137/66, and my heart rate was approximately 85 beats per minute. I would like to ask ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hi, Peter. Your blood pressure is 137/66 and your heart rate is 85, which are both within normal ranges with no signs of hypertension or tachycardia. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Slightly Elevated Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Concerns
Understanding Tachycardia: Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Concerns
Issues related to tachycardia? Hello Doctor, I measured my blood pressure while sitting calmly and resting for five minutes, and I did this three times. My blood pressure was around 137/66, and my heart rate was about 85 beats per minute. I would like to know if this is considere...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Normal blood pressure and heart rate do not warrant the issuance of a medical certificate. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Tachycardia: Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Concerns
Understanding Breathing Issues: Heart Valve Problems Explained
Breathing feels a bit unusual! Hello Dr. Lin, I'm not sure if I'm asking the right doctor about this issue. Sometimes I feel like I'm not getting enough air when I breathe, but it only lasts for a second or two and then goes away. I previously visited a doctor at T...
Dr. Lin Yongguo Reply:
Feeling short of breath for a second or two during respiration is typically classified as a non-specific symptom, meaning it is usually not serious. Possible causes include psychogenic factors (such as anxiety or depression), valve prolapse (mitral or tricuspid valve prolapse), a...[Read More] Understanding Breathing Issues: Heart Valve Problems Explained
Understanding Shortness of Breath While Taking Inderal: Causes and Solutions
Wheezing..? Doctor: Hello! I am taking Inderal for certain reasons, but I don't understand why I experience shortness of breath whenever I take this medication. The more medication I take, the more I feel like I can't catch my breath. Could you please explain the reason...
Dr. Zhuang Junbin Reply:
Hello, Xiao Hui: If a patient has bronchial asthma, it is generally not advisable to use Inderal (propranolol). I recommend that you visit the pulmonary medicine clinic to check if you have an asthmatic condition. Dr. Chuang Jun-bin.[Read More] Understanding Shortness of Breath While Taking Inderal: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms, Risks, and Family History
Hypertension issues? Hello, Doctor: I have been suffering from a cold for 1 to 2 months without recovery. Last week, my blood pressure readings were between 170-150 for systolic and 120-105 for diastolic, and this persisted for 3 to 4 days. In the last couple of days, my readings...
Dr. Zhu Nianfeng Reply:
When experiencing a cold or feeling unwell, blood pressure may increase; however, it may stabilize upon recovery. Since your age and recent diastolic pressure are unknown, an immediate assessment cannot be made. Please measure your blood pressure a few more times and inform us of...[Read More] Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms, Risks, and Family History
Post-Aortic Dissection Surgery: Activities to Avoid for Recovery
Aortic dissection After undergoing aortic dissection bypass surgery, patients should avoid certain activities to reduce the risk of recurrence. It is generally recommended to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that involve sudden or intense physical exertion....
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Dear Li, the most important thing is to control your blood pressure and avoid various stimulating activities, including spicy foods. Moderate exercise should be encouraged, but intense workouts should be avoided. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Post-Aortic Dissection Surgery: Activities to Avoid for Recovery
Do I Have Hypertension? Understanding Blood Pressure and Symptoms
Do I have a problem with high blood pressure? Medical History and Symptoms: Mitral valve prolapse, hyperlipidemia, palpitations, headache, dizziness, head fullness, heat in the head, and issues with carotid pulsation. 1. Blood pressure in the morning: 115-120/70 (measured with ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Your condition is normal, so there is no need to worry. As for whether there is elevated venous pressure, please visit a nearby cardiology clinic for further examination. The symptoms do not seem to be concerning, unlike those at Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Do I Have Hypertension? Understanding Blood Pressure and Symptoms
Managing Heart Failure: Key Considerations Beyond Medication
Heart failure Could you please clarify what you mean by a cardiac output of 29? In general, if you are referring to a low cardiac output, it is important to monitor your overall heart health. Besides dietary considerations, you should also pay attention to the following: 1. **Re...
Dr. Lin Changqi Reply:
When quitting smoking, avoid consuming too much salt and oil, engage in more physical activity, and gradually increase your training. Due to insufficient data, these are general recommendations. - Lin Chang-Chi[Read More] Managing Heart Failure: Key Considerations Beyond Medication
Impact of Blood Pressure Medication and Move Free on Health
Blood pressure medication + glucosamine? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask you a question. My mother is 56 years old. She has had slightly elevated blood pressure in the past. Her family doctor recommended the blood pressure medication Concor 5, which she has been taking for nea...
Dr. Lin Changqi Reply:
Should have no impact.[Read More] Impact of Blood Pressure Medication and Move Free on Health
Understanding Heart Weakness: Symptoms of Numbness and Fatigue
Heart weakness ~ numbness in hands and legs? Hello! I would like to ask a few questions. My mother is nearly sixty years old and has high blood pressure, for which she is taking antihypertensive medication. Recently, she has been feeling weakness in her heart, her hands are easil...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen, please measure your blood pressure at home while lying down and standing up. It may be caused by orthostatic hypotension, which is more likely to occur in patients taking antihypertensive medications. As for the numbness in your hands and feet, it may be related to...[Read More] Understanding Heart Weakness: Symptoms of Numbness and Fatigue
Understanding Anemia: When to Seek Cardiovascular Care
Anemia I often feel dizzy when I squat down and stand up, and I frequently experience chest tightness. Every time I try to donate blood, my hemoglobin levels are insufficient! In the past, I would often have chest tightness before my menstrual period, but now it happens frequentl...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Dear Leng Fei, based on your symptoms, it appears that you are experiencing anemia combined with low blood pressure, which is causing your rapid heartbeat and mitral valve prolapse. For anemia, you should consult a hematologist, while for low blood pressure and mitral valve issue...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: When to Seek Cardiovascular Care
Why Does Shaving My Calves Trigger Heart Palpitations?
Why does scraping the calf cause palpitations? In the past year, I have occasionally experienced palpitations, especially when getting a massage. When the therapist massages my calves, I feel continuous palpitations; if I stop the massage or have a lighter touch, it improves. Rec...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
DEAR DRYSTAL, based on your symptoms of dyspnea and low blood pressure, it may be related to autonomic nervous system instability. Why does rubbing your calves cause palpitations? I haven't heard of this; it could be that the stimulation in that area is particularly strong f...[Read More] Why Does Shaving My Calves Trigger Heart Palpitations?