Understanding ST Segment Changes in ECG: Insights for Heart Health
Interpretation of ST Segment in Electrocardiogram (ECG) Hello Dr. Wu, I apologize for the interruption. I do not have hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. I am 172 cm tall and weigh 73 kg, and I usually have a habit of exercising. Recently, I have been recovering from APL a...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
To determine the presence of coronary artery disease, it is recommended to perform an exercise electrocardiogram, as a resting electrocardiogram cannot assess non-specific ST changes.[Read More] Understanding ST Segment Changes in ECG: Insights for Heart Health
Understanding Ejection Fraction: What Does an 85% EF Mean for Heart Health?
Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the ejection fraction in the echocardiogram report. Thank you for your help? Hello Doctor, during my follow-up visit to review the report, the doctor only mentioned the issue of diastolic dysfunction, stating that it is a normal degenerati...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
The report indicates mild mitral regurgitation and trivial tricuspid regurgitation, with no significant issues in other structures and functions. The systolic function is at 85%, which is still within normal limits, and no further follow-up is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Ejection Fraction: What Does an 85% EF Mean for Heart Health?
Understanding Heart Inflammation Risks from First-Generation Antihistamines
Hello, I would like to inquire about heart inflammation caused by first-generation antihistamines? The doctor did not understand my medical history and mistakenly prescribed me 30 mg of the antihistamine diphenhydramine, which I took in combination with my sedative (I had taken h...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Based on your description, it is not possible to diagnose whether it is myocarditis. Please go to the hospital for further examination.[Read More] Understanding Heart Inflammation Risks from First-Generation Antihistamines
Can a Damaged Heart Recover After Stent Placement? Understanding Heart Health
Can a damaged heart recover? Grandfather has severe coronary artery blockage (due to untreated blocked vessels, he has developed stable chronic heart failure stage II). He was recently hospitalized for stent placement, but before the procedure, he was able to eat and walk (engagi...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Coronary artery obstruction can lead to severe myocardial ischemia. When we restore blood flow, it can reduce the ischemic effects on the patient's heart failure symptoms, resulting in a certain degree of improvement.[Read More] Can a Damaged Heart Recover After Stent Placement? Understanding Heart Health
Understanding ECG and Echocardiogram Results for Heart Health Evaluation
Regarding Electrocardiogram and Echocardiogram Dear Dr. He, I recently underwent both a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) and a cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram). The results indicated that there is "very mild" regurgitation of the mitral and tricuspid valves, but it d...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if the resting electrocardiogram and echocardiogram do not reveal any coronary artery issues but you still feel unwell or have concerns, it is recommended to undergo coronary angiography. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding ECG and Echocardiogram Results for Heart Health Evaluation
Understanding Heart Palpitations and Chest Pain: Key Concerns
Increased heart rate and mild pain in the left chest? Hello, Doctor He! In September 2019, I underwent an examination at a general cardiology clinic, where I was found to have mild hypertension (142/90 mm Hg) and mild diabetes (hemoglobin A1c 7.1). The doctor prescribed BISO 5 mg...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is not possible to determine whether there is coronary artery obstruction or myocardial ischemia. It is recommended that your physician arrange for a stress electrocardiogram or a self-paid computed tomography scan to better understand the sit...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations and Chest Pain: Key Concerns
Understanding Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms: What You Need to Know
Difference in blood pressure between the left and right arms? Hello Dr. He, I recently experienced sudden palpitations and noticed a significant difference in systolic blood pressure readings between my left and right arms. I monitored my blood pressure continuously for several d...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, this blood pressure difference is within the normal range, and there is no need to start taking blood pressure medication. This is unrelated to any cardiovascular blockage or structural issues, so there is no need to worry. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Differences Between Arms: What You Need to Know
Understanding Heart Checkups: Insights on Ischemia and Diagnostic Options
Cardiac examination Doctor: Hello! Recently, I experienced occasional chest tightness and chest pain, so I underwent an exercise electrocardiogram (ECG). The report indicated downsloping ST depression >= -2.15 mm over aVF at exercise stage 4 (Max HR: 155 (96%), Max time: 10’07...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, over the past 15 years, I have undergone multiple exercise electrocardiograms and nuclear medicine myocardial perfusion studies, with reports being relatively consistent. However, I am still concerned about the possibility of coronary artery disease. I recommend undergoing...[Read More] Understanding Heart Checkups: Insights on Ischemia and Diagnostic Options
Understanding Arrhythmias vs. Coronary Artery Blockage: A Patient's Journey
Arrhythmia or coronary artery obstruction? I do not smoke, am not obese, and have no family history of hypertension. However, over the past two to three years, my cholesterol levels have gradually increased beyond the normal range, and my blood pressure has also slightly exceeded...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, 1. The scan report indicates an arterial blockage rate of less than 25%, which suggests there is likely no blockage; however, the doctor mentioned that there is still a possibility of coronary artery obstruction. While nothing is ever 100% certain, the probability of cor...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmias vs. Coronary Artery Blockage: A Patient's Journey
Understanding the New Definition of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Insurance
Questions related to acute myocardial infarction (severe)? Hello Dr. Lee: Next year, the definition of "critical illness" in life insurance will be redefined. The definition of myocardial infarction will refer to the necrosis of a portion of the myocardium due to corona...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello Sunny, regarding the definition of acute myocardial infarction you mentioned, it is a narrow and outdated definition. However, according to the explicit terms of your insurance contract, if you meet the criteria, the insurance company should provide coverage. If you do not ...[Read More] Understanding the New Definition of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Insurance