Should I Repeat My Heart Ultrasound After High Cholesterol Results?
High cholesterol Hello Doctor, I recently received my blood test results showing my bad cholesterol at 175, compared to 122 last year. Should I consider getting another echocardiogram? The last one I had was last year, and the doctor said my heart was healthy and my blood vessels...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a cardiac ultrasound should not be used to assess the cleanliness of blood vessels. If your bad cholesterol is 175, it's advisable to start medication for control. The cardiac ultrasound evaluates the heart's pumping function, but it is not related to the cleanli...[Read More] Should I Repeat My Heart Ultrasound After High Cholesterol Results?
Understanding Panic Attacks: Impact on Heart Health and Biomarkers
Panic disorder emergency room visit (CPK and Troponin) Hello, cardiologist. I have been taking medication for panic disorder for over ten years (Xanax). On April 10, I went to the emergency room due to a panic attack, where my blood pressure was 177/133 and my heart rate was arou...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a slightly elevated level may not necessarily be significant, so there's no need to worry. If there are no symptoms, and both the EKG and echocardiogram are normal, it is advisable to just monitor the situation. If you are constantly concerned about considering a self...[Read More] Understanding Panic Attacks: Impact on Heart Health and Biomarkers
Should You Consider Cardiac Catheterization for Myocardial Ischemia?
Is cardiac catheterization necessary for myocardial ischemia? Hello Doctor, a few days ago I went to see a cardiologist because I experienced shortness of breath while sitting. After performing an exercise stress test, the doctor informed me that I have myocardial ischemia and or...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
According to your report, there is indeed a condition of hypoxia in the myocardium. Medication treatment can be initiated; if symptoms do not improve, consideration should be given to undergoing a cardiac catheterization.[Read More] Should You Consider Cardiac Catheterization for Myocardial Ischemia?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Iron Deficiency Anemia and White Blood Cell Counts
Please inquire about the contents of the blood test report? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing long-term fatigue, severe hair loss, and excessive sleepiness, which prompted me to seek medical attention. I had a special test for thyroid function, and the results were normal. T...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, your lymphocyte percentage is 51.6%, monocyte percentage is 13.3%, and granulocyte percentage is 35.1%, with a total white blood cell count of 3400. The abnormalities are not likely due to iron deficiency anemia; it may be related to lack of sleep. Changhua Hospital cares ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Iron Deficiency Anemia and White Blood Cell Counts
Understanding Mild Pulmonary Hypertension: Should I Be Concerned?
Waking up always accompanied by palpitations—could I have pulmonary hypertension? Due to tinnitus and insomnia, I have no family history of illness. During examinations, it was discovered that my thyroid levels were 0.2 above the normal range. I visited the endocrinology departme...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
1. Mild tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and mild mitral regurgitation (MR) do not affect cardiac function and do not cause symptoms. 2. Palpitations are mostly benign. Factors such as stress, tea, alcohol, smoking, coffee, hyperthyroidism, or stimulation of the sympathetic or vagu...[Read More] Understanding Mild Pulmonary Hypertension: Should I Be Concerned?
Understanding Antiplatelet Medications: Aspirin and Ticagrelor Insights
Antiplatelet medication consultation Hello Director He, I am the person who inquired about the use of aspirin on March 23, 2020 (#154386) on the website. Thank you very much for your previous response. However, I overlooked another medication. Due to my heart stent placement, in ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, there is a possibility of hemolysis occurring with the use of Aspirin and Ticagrelor. This type of hemolysis is different from the hemolysis observed in blood tests and does not affect the accuracy of the blood draw. Be assured that Changhua Hospital is concerned about you...[Read More] Understanding Antiplatelet Medications: Aspirin and Ticagrelor Insights
Understanding Aspirin Use: Hemolysis Concerns and Blood Test Implications
Aspirin Use Consultation Hello Director He, I have a heart stent placed and am currently using 100 mg enteric-coated aspirin for treatment. Recently, I came across information indicating that aspirin can cause hemolysis under certain conditions. I would like to ask you, is this...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the "hemolysis" that may occur with aspirin is different from the "hemolysis" mentioned in blood tests. The phenomenon of hemolysis due to aspirin is rare, and blood tests can accurately assess this. Don't worry, Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Aspirin Use: Hemolysis Concerns and Blood Test Implications
Understanding Heart Issues: Managing Symptoms and Seeking Help
Is it a heart problem? I have fainted twice in the past two months. The first time was five minutes after hiking, and I lost consciousness due to brain numbness. The second time occurred while I was brushing my teeth at home; I suddenly felt chest tightness but didn't pay mu...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
It is recommended that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician to determine if any additional examinations are necessary. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Heart Issues: Managing Symptoms and Seeking Help
Understanding Atrial Septal Defect: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
Atrial septal defect (ASD) Hello, Symptoms: Starting from February 18, I have experienced unilateral numbness and tingling in my right shoulder, hand, and foot, along with tingling in my head, palpitations (rapid and forceful), chest tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, an...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you go to a medical center for further examination of your atrial septal defect. You can visit the Children's Hospital affiliated with China Medical University and consult with Director Fu Yunqing, who is an authority in this field. It is advisa...[Read More] Understanding Atrial Septal Defect: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rapid heartbeat Hello Doctor, last month I had gastroenteritis and felt very weak, so I rested at home. However, while at rest, my heart rate was over 120 beats per minute for several hours, which made me quite worried about possibly having myocarditis. I then went to the emergen...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you are experiencing a rapid heartbeat due to dehydration and weakness from gastroenteritis, along with anxiety. It's not an arrhythmia, so there's no need to worry; it won't pose any danger. Just rest and recover. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Persistent Fever and Chest Discomfort: When to See a Cardiologist?
Mild chest tightness and low-grade fever? Hello doctor, about two months ago I had a severe cold, and my cough lasted for about a month before it improved. After that, I started experiencing abdominal pain and vomiting. I first went to the gastroenterology clinic, where blood tes...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if you have a fever, it is advisable to first consult an infectious disease specialist. If there are any concerns, that specialist will coordinate with other relevant departments. It will be handled by the infectious disease physician. Take care from Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Persistent Fever and Chest Discomfort: When to See a Cardiologist?
Understanding Chest Tightness, Dizziness, and Rapid Heartbeat Symptoms
Chest tightness, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent chest tightness (more noticeable when sitting or lying down), along with dizziness, warm palms, warmth in the back of my neck, and warm exhaled breath, although my body temperature re...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you may be experiencing some physical discomfort such as nasal congestion and fever, which could lead to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, chest tightness, and palpitations. It is advisable to consult a psychosomatic specialist. Changhua Hospital cares about your wel...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness, Dizziness, and Rapid Heartbeat Symptoms
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 Your Blood Test Results: Are You Anemic?
Complete Blood Count (CBC) What is my condition - anemia? A. Complete blood count: White blood cells 6.26 (4-10.5 x10^3/µL), Red blood cells 6.62 (4.2-5.9 x10^6/µL), Hemoglobin 14.2 (13-17.5 g/dL), Hematocrit 42.6 (39-53%), Mean corpuscular hemoglobin 21.5 (26-34 pg), Mean corpus...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you do not have anemia and can be monitored. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Are You Anemic?
Mitral Valve Prolapse: Understanding Symptoms and Anxiety Connection
Mitral valve prolapse, suspected autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Hello Doctor, at the beginning of November, I experienced left chest pain and discomfort in my back (which I believe is around the shoulder blade area, but that area has been sore for a long time). I also had ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it seems that your anxiety and overthinking may have led to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Both your exercise electrocardiogram and resting electrocardiogram are normal, indicating that your heart is fine. There's no need to worry about sudden issues; just re...[Read More] Mitral Valve Prolapse: Understanding Symptoms and Anxiety Connection
Understanding Medication Side Effects in Cardiovascular Treatment
Drug side effects Director: Hello, I need your assistance again. I was originally taking antihypertensive medication, specifically Olmesartan 20 mg once daily. In early February of this year, due to mitral valve insufficiency, my physician prescribed Bisoprolol 1.25 mg, also once...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed rare for this to occur. Whether it is truly a side effect of the medication is uncertain. The simplest approach is to temporarily discontinue the medication and monitor the situation after a week. If there is an improvement, it may be attributed to a side effe...[Read More] Understanding Medication Side Effects in Cardiovascular Treatment
Do I Need a Heart Catheterization After Abnormal Exercise ECG Results?
Hello, Doctor He. I would like to ask if it is necessary to perform a cardiac catheterization based on the data from an exercise electrocardiogram? Hello Doctor, At the beginning of November, I went to the emergency room due to chest tightness and difficulty breathing. The init...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, in Recovery Stage 1, the data shows ST -2.00 mm. What level of myocardial ischemia does this indicate? It's hard to say; it depends on how long you have been exercising. Given your situation, I recommend getting evaluated, especially since you are traveling abroad. Me...[Read More] Do I Need a Heart Catheterization After Abnormal Exercise ECG Results?
Understanding Arrhythmias and Blood Pressure Issues: A Patient's Journey
Arrhythmia and blood pressure issues? Hello, Doctor He: First of all, thank you very much for your response. Today, I had an electrocardiogram (ECG), and the results showed nothing abnormal. The doctor prescribed me with Uxin enteric-coated tablets, Paoan tablets, Mianlv tablets,...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you are too anxious, which has led to excessive autonomic nervous system excitement. Medications like Youxinmoyin, Paoan tablet, and Mianlv tablet can help alleviate this. Just monitor your blood pressure as measured at the hospital; this is not high blood pressure, so the...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmias and Blood Pressure Issues: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Severe Anemia: What to Expect from Your Blood Tests
Anemia-related issues I recently went to a clinic for an employee health check-up, and I was diagnosed with severe anemia. My hemoglobin level is 6.1, with normal platelet and white blood cell counts. My hematocrit is 23.6, MCV is 46.9, MCH is 12.1, and MCHC is 25.8. About three ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is advisable for you to take iron supplements for one month before visiting the hematology department for further examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding Severe Anemia: What to Expect from Your Blood Tests
Low Oxygen Levels in Blood Test: Understanding Your Cardiovascular Health
In the blood test report, the partial pressure of oxygen and oxygen saturation are below the standard values? Hello, doctor. The symptoms include chest tightness. Please analyze the blood test report. Thank you. PH: 7.334 PCO2: 49.5 PO2: 17.7 HCO3: 25.7 BE: -0.8 O2 Sat...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the venous blood sample drawn is not suitable for assessing oxygen saturation. Overall, everything is fine. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Low Oxygen Levels in Blood Test: Understanding Your Cardiovascular Health