Understanding Neck Vein Changes After Heart Stent Placement: What to Know
Issues with the internal jugular vein after cardiac stenting? My father, who is 55 years old, underwent a cardiac catheterization procedure at the end of last year due to chest discomfort, during which a drug-eluting stent was placed in the left anterior descending artery. He is ...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your question about jugular vein distension? Essentially, after your father's cardiac catheterization, he has not experienced any chest discomfort or shortness of breath, and follow-up echocardiograms indicate that his heart function is generally normal with...[Read More] Understanding Neck Vein Changes After Heart Stent Placement: What to Know
Understanding Vascular Health: Managing Hypertension and Palpitations
Cerebrovascular disease, hypertension Hello Doctor, I am 25 years old. During middle school, I experienced a significant event that caused immense stress, and since then, my palpitations have become very severe. I often feel pulsations throughout my body while at rest, and even s...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, autonomic nervous system dysfunction does not lead to aneurysms, so don't overthink it or scare yourself. High blood pressure and a large pulse pressure, as well as involuntary muscle twitching, are also related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Changhua Hospit...[Read More] Understanding Vascular Health: Managing Hypertension and Palpitations
Managing Side Effects After Heart Stent Placement: A Guide for Patients
Inquire about post-stent issues for father? Dear Doctor, My father (55 years old) underwent the placement of a drug-eluting stent due to LAD stenosis last December. Postoperatively, the doctor prescribed DAPT (aspirin + Plavix) along with propranolol to be taken daily. However, ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if the father is not experiencing an acute myocardial infarction, he can temporarily refrain from taking INDERAL and observe whether the symptoms resolve. If the symptoms disappear, it is likely a side effect of the medication, and he should stop taking it and discuss it w...[Read More] Managing Side Effects After Heart Stent Placement: A Guide for Patients
Managing Peripheral Artery Blockage After Aortic Dissection: Options and Outlook
Aortic dissection leading to peripheral artery occlusive disease in the lower extremities? Hello Dr. Huang: My father is 58 years old. In mid-November of this year, he was admitted to National Taiwan University Hospital for emergency treatment due to an Aortic Dissection, which e...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello Mr. Huang: There are two main surgical approaches for managing lower limb arterial occlusion: one is catheter-based interventions such as balloon angioplasty, stenting, or thrombectomy, and the other is bypass surgery (creating an artificial graft to bypass the occluded seg...[Read More] Managing Peripheral Artery Blockage After Aortic Dissection: Options and Outlook
Understanding Heartbeat Sensation in the Ear After COVID-19
Feeling a heartbeat in the ear? Hello Doctor, I recently gave birth, and after my confinement period, I was diagnosed with COVID-19. After the diagnosis, I noticed that sometimes I can hear a thumping sound in my left ear that resembles my heartbeat. This usually happens when I t...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, this is what is referred to as palpitations. It may not necessarily indicate a problem; it could be related to autonomic nervous system issues or long COVID. It's important not to worry too much; just get through it. Are you breastfeeding? If so, there's no need ...[Read More] Understanding Heartbeat Sensation in the Ear After COVID-19
Understanding Finger Microvascular Rupture: When to See a Doctor
Vascular issues - rupture of microvessels in the fingers? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing sudden sharp pain in my fingers (specifically the thumbs and middle fingers of both hands), which feels like being cut with a knife. At the same time, I have noticed small bl...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
If this symptom persists, it is recommended to visit a hospital for further examination.[Read More] Understanding Finger Microvascular Rupture: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Vascular Aging: Can Young Adults Reverse Arterial Stiffness?
Vascular sclerosis Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing dizziness that feels like swaying, similar to being on a boat, and sometimes I feel faint. I had a 10-minute MRI of my brain, which came back normal, and an ear examination by an ENT specialist also showed normal results....
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, do you smoke? If so, have you quit? Do you have any family history related to this? To be honest, I'm not sure how this test relates to your dizziness. Are your blood vessels really that aged? I also have doubts about the accuracy of this test. Please discuss this dir...[Read More] Understanding Vascular Aging: Can Young Adults Reverse Arterial Stiffness?
Managing Hypertension: Safety and Dosage of Blood Pressure Medications
Antihypertensive medications Hello Director: I previously had high blood pressure, and the clinic prescribed "Amlodipine" as an antihypertensive medication, one tablet daily. My blood pressure is now around 140-130/90. I would like to ask: 1. Is it possible to reduce th...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the blood pressure is approximately 140-130/90, which is still not low. It is not advisable to reduce the medication. Is the component of this medication safe? No problem, it will also take care of the heart and reduce the mortality rate from heart failure. There is no ant...[Read More] Managing Hypertension: Safety and Dosage of Blood Pressure Medications
Understanding Hard Lumps in Blood Vessels After Injections
Vascular hard lumps? I have been receiving anti-inflammatory injections at the clinic for tendonitis for several consecutive days. Afterwards, the nurse mentioned that the blood vessels on the inner side of my right elbow had hardened. After repeating the injections in the same l...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you should just observe, as theoretically, it will improve on its own. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps in Blood Vessels After Injections
Understanding Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms: Causes and Concerns
Different blood pressure readings in both arms? My left arm blood pressure is 121/77, and my right arm blood pressure is 147/87. The difference in blood pressure between my two arms—could it be due to my cervical spine pain, which causes sounds when I move my neck, leading to cer...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is normal for blood pressure readings to differ between the two arms; you can observe it for now. It is not likely a problem related to cervical spine compression of the blood vessels. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms: Causes and Concerns
Can EECP Therapy Improve Symptoms in Patients with Myocardial Bridge and Heart Enlargement?
Myocardial bridging and cardiac enlargement: Can EECP improve these conditions? Hello Dr. Wu, I would like to ask about my condition. I have been diagnosed with myocardial bridge and cardiomegaly, and I am currently on a fixed medication regimen. However, my chest discomfort has ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
1. EECP (Enhanced External Counterpulsation) promotes the development of collateral circulation by stimulating the growth of small blood vessels, particularly near obstructed arteries, which can enhance and normalize blood flow to the heart muscle. It is effective in treating ang...[Read More] Can EECP Therapy Improve Symptoms in Patients with Myocardial Bridge and Heart Enlargement?
Post-Stent Surgery: Cold Sensitivity and Shortness of Breath Explained
After heart stent placement, experiencing chills and shortness of breath? My brother has three blocked blood vessels. At the beginning of June, he underwent a stent placement surgery for one of the vessels that was 90% blocked. He was discharged seven days post-surgery but is now...
Dr. Cai Guiqin Reply:
It is recommended that you discuss the above situation with your attending physician to determine if further examinations are necessary. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Post-Stent Surgery: Cold Sensitivity and Shortness of Breath Explained
Understanding Tongue Numbness: Possible Cardiovascular Issues Explained
Tongue numbness and blood pressure? Hello, I would like to consult a doctor. I have been experiencing tongue numbness for a year. Since May of last year, I sometimes have unilateral tongue edge numbness and pain, and at other times, my entire tongue feels numb with a burning sens...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, tongue numbness and limb numbness are issues related to sensory nerves and should not be associated with cardiovascular problems. It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding Tongue Numbness: Possible Cardiovascular Issues Explained
Managing Hypertension: Do I Need to Continue Multiple Medications?
Issues with Hypertension Medications Hello, Director Wu! I started taking blood pressure medication six years ago when my blood pressure was 145/85, and my cholesterol was high at 230, while my triglycerides were normal at 100. The doctor prescribed Amlodipine 160 mg. After that,...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Due to the presence of calcification in the coronary arteries, it is essential to properly control blood pressure and lipid levels. If there are any side effects from the current medication, it is advisable to discuss with the prescribing physician whether a change in medication ...[Read More] Managing Hypertension: Do I Need to Continue Multiple Medications?
Understanding Cardiac Catheterization: Misdiagnosis and Heart Health Concerns
Cardiac catheterization In January 2021, I underwent a nuclear medicine myocardial perfusion imaging test that indicated hypoxia; however, I do not have hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, and I did not experience symptoms of chest tightness or chest pain at that time. The...
Dr. Cai Guiqin 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 Cardiac Catheterization: Misdiagnosis and Heart Health Concerns
Understanding Palpitations: When to Seek Further Cardiac Evaluation
Questions related to palpitations? Hello Doctor, Since receiving my two vaccine doses six months ago, I have been experiencing intermittent palpitations and chest tightness. During this time, I visited a cardiologist and underwent a stress electrocardiogram, a 24-hour Holter mo...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it sounds like you might be experiencing symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, such as persistent anxiety related to stable angina pectoris at 50%. It would be advisable to undergo a self-funded cardiac CT scan to gain a clearer understanding. Changhua Hospital...[Read More] Understanding Palpitations: When to Seek Further Cardiac Evaluation
Understanding Myocardial Hypoxia: Questions and Insights for Patients
Questions about myocardial hypoxia? Hello, doctor. I previously visited a cardiologist due to chest tightness and palpitations. During a resting electrocardiogram (ECG), arrhythmia was detected, leading to a 24-hour Holter monitor test. The results indicated that the arrhythmia w...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a 24-hour ECG showing ST-T changes does not necessarily indicate myocardial ischemia, so it is reasonable to observe first. Therefore, the physician did not arrange for further testing. If you are still concerned, you may consider undergoing a stress test and blood tests f...[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Hypoxia: Questions and Insights for Patients
Understanding Your Family Member's Heart Report: A Guide to CABG Decisions
Family member's heart examination report? Hello Dr. He: My family member is experiencing heart discomfort. They recently underwent a heart examination, and we would appreciate your help in interpreting the following report: we only understand that they were referred for CABG...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, in summary, all three blood vessels have issues, and the right coronary artery is completely occluded. Whether to proceed with CABG should be determined based on the patient's age, physical condition, and angiographic findings. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Your Family Member's Heart Report: A Guide to CABG Decisions
Link Between Weight Training, Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, and Blood Pressure
The relationship between resistance training, left ventricular hypertrophy, and blood pressure? Hello Dr. Lee, I am 37 years old, with a height of 169 cm and a weight of 70 kg, and a body fat percentage of 16. I do not stay up late and have a long-standing habit of aerobic exerci...
Dr. Li Shengkai Reply:
Based on your description, your body fat percentage is low, and with a high level of physical activity, I suspect that the electrocardiogram shows "left ventricular hypertrophy with strain" (LVH with strain). (1) Athletes, due to high-intensity training and prolonged st...[Read More] Link Between Weight Training, Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, and Blood Pressure
Are Visible Blood Vessels a Side Effect of Taking Birth Control Pills?
Vascular prominence? Hello Doctor: I started taking Diane contraceptive pills recently, which contain Cyproterone 2mg and Ethinylestradiol 0.035mg. After a few days, I noticed that my blood vessels have become more prominent all over my body (in my neck, arms, feet, calves, thigh...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: Hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk of thromboembolic diseases. However, a definitive diagnosis cannot be made based solely on your description without an examination, as allergies are also a possibility. Additionally, these symptoms may not necessarily be relate...[Read More] Are Visible Blood Vessels a Side Effect of Taking Birth Control Pills?