Distinguishing Between Panic Attacks and Heart Disease Symptoms
Panic and heart disease? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask how to differentiate between a panic attack and a heart problem. A couple of days ago, I accidentally experienced an episode while sleeping; I wasn't sure if it was due to being too hot and sweating or night sweats ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you do not have heart disease. Your current symptoms are mostly caused by panic and anxiety. Both the electrocardiogram and ultrasound are normal. A heart rate of 140-160 beats per minute can be a normal response when you are frightened. You are too anxious; try to relax. ...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Panic Attacks and Heart Disease Symptoms
Understanding Your Heart Health: Interpreting Cardiac Test Results
Cardiac Examination Report Recent chest tightness and shortness of breath led to a cardiology examination. Please help me review the report, thank you. Echocardiogram report: M-mode and Doppler Cardiac chamber size/Wall thickness Aortic root (20-37): 26 mm LAD (19-40): 30 mm LVI...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
The echocardiogram report indicates only mild mitral regurgitation and mild tricuspid regurgitation, with other cardiac functions and structures being normal. The exercise electrocardiogram report is normal.[Read More] Understanding Your Heart Health: Interpreting Cardiac Test Results
Is a Resting Heart Rate Above 80 Normal? Understanding Heart Health
Rapid heartbeat I would like to ask the doctor, although it is said that a heart rate of up to 100 is within the normal range, my resting heart rate is above 80 while sitting, and it exceeds 100 when I stand up or walk. Is this normal?
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a heart rate of 100 beats per minute is considered within the normal range. The threshold of 100 is a human-defined limit; as long as the heartbeat is regular, it is generally regarded as normal. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Is a Resting Heart Rate Above 80 Normal? Understanding Heart Health
Understanding Cholesterol Levels: Why Is My Total Cholesterol 220?
Total cholesterol 220 mg/dL? Doctor, my name is Jun-An, I am 61 years old, female. My blood test results from July 5th are as follows: Hemoglobin A1c: 5.4%, Fasting Blood Glucose: 91 mg/dL, Triglycerides: 118 mg/dL, Cholesterol: 220 mg/dL, High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): 76 mg/dL...
Dr. Cai Guiqin Reply:
Recommendation: Please discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. Thank you. Wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Cholesterol Levels: Why Is My Total Cholesterol 220?
Do You Need Ablation for WPW Syndrome? Can You Fly Safely?
Does Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome require catheter ablation (can one fly)? Hello, Director He. I would like to consult you regarding issues related to WPW syndrome. First, please review my examination results below: 1. I have undergone two 24-hour Holter ECGs (the first ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the echocardiogram and exercise electrocardiogram both appear normal. An inconclusive result means there is nothing wrong. It is normal for blood pressure to increase during exercise. In the case of Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, ablation is recommended unless you n...[Read More] Do You Need Ablation for WPW Syndrome? Can You Fly Safely?
Understanding Arrhythmias: Concerns About Fast Heart Rates and VPCs
Concern about arrhythmia? Thank you very much, Director. Recently, I have been anxious about issues such as rapid heartbeat, missed beats, and heart rates reaching 170. You have patiently provided me with professional knowledge, and I truly appreciate it. I understand that you ar...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, yes, I have been worried that these arrhythmias might be a serious issue. However, the echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter monitor, X-rays, blood tests, and exercise stress test results are all normal. This means that the chances of experiencing malignant arrhythmias and sudden...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmias: Concerns About Fast Heart Rates and VPCs
Understanding Heart Rhythm Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Cardiac rhythm issues Hello, Doctor. Thank you for your valuable advice. I am currently taking antiarrhythmic medication. Sometimes my blood pressure is 104, other times it is 130. I feel that the medication sometimes makes my heart rate stronger, causing my blood pressure to dro...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if your echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter monitor, X-ray, and blood tests are all normal, then there is no need for a CT scan. Quitting smoking can cause changes in your heart rate, which is normal, so there's no need to worry. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Heart Rhythm Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Low Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Changes After Medication
Blood pressure issues? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for asking another question regarding a recent issue. My usual blood pressure is around 120/75. Recently, I've been taking a heart rhythm medication in the morning, around 11 AM, for about three weeks. However, for the past t...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, basically we are human, and fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate are normal. Occasional headaches and dizziness are also inevitable; this does not necessarily indicate any danger. People are not that fragile. Just relax and go on with life. Changhua Hospital cares...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Changes After Medication
Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions and Heart Health Risks
Over 10,000 premature atrial contractions? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling something unusual with my heart, so I bought an Apple Watch. After wearing it for three days, it detected atrial fibrillation six times, and my heart rate has been elevated, with a resting ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, as a 37-year-old female, I recommend discussing with your attending physician the best treatment options for you. The information available online is relatively insufficient, so it's best to follow your physician's advice. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions and Heart Health Risks
Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions: What You Need to Know
Over 10,000 premature atrial contractions? Hello Doctor, I underwent gynecological surgery in February, and the doctor mentioned that I have arrhythmia and advised me to see a cardiologist. I purchased an Apple Watch and within three days, it detected atrial fibrillation 5-6 time...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
If the frequency of atrial premature contractions is high, it is recommended to consider medication to reduce their occurrence.[Read More] Understanding Atrial Premature Contractions: What You Need to Know
Post-COVID Heart Rate Increase: When to See a Cardiologist?
Increased heart rate after diagnosis? I started having a fever early yesterday morning, and after taking a rapid test this morning, it came back positive. I visited a clinic and after taking some medication, I feel that my symptoms have improved significantly. Since I wear an App...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is normal for your heart rate to increase after being diagnosed. Just monitor it, as an elevated heart rate may persist for a period of time, even for several months. It should gradually return to normal. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Post-COVID Heart Rate Increase: When to See a Cardiologist?
Understanding Arrhythmias: Severity, Treatment, and Prognosis Explained
Arrhythmia Hello, Director. I went to the clinic for a 24-hour Holter monitor. The report states: The patient was monitored for a total of 23:59 hours. The total time analyzed was 23:58 hours. Start time was 11:15 AM. There was a total of 137,318 beats, with 5% being ventricular ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, I believe it is not serious. Medication will not cure it, but only control it. If there are no discomforts, monitoring while taking medication is sufficient. If it worsens, then we can consider catheter ablation treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmias: Severity, Treatment, and Prognosis Explained
Understanding Your 24-Hour Holter ECG and Echocardiogram Report
Examination Report The Ambulatory Holter ECG report: 1. The baseline ECG showed sinus rhythm with a heart rate ranging from 38 to 157 beats per minute. The average heart rate was 70 beats per minute. 2. There was sinus bradycardia without any long pauses. 3. No paroxysmal s...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: Below are the results of the examination report, which are generally unremarkable. The purpose of the examination is typically to determine if there is a need for disease diagnosis or treatment. Please follow up with your physician to discuss any further management. 24-h...[Read More] Understanding Your 24-Hour Holter ECG and Echocardiogram Report
Understanding Heart Rate Variability: Is It Normal or Cause for Concern?
Heart rate issues Thank you, Director, for taking the time to respond to my question during the Dragon Boat Festival. I appreciate it and wish you a pleasant holiday. I would like to ask if significant fluctuations in heart rate are a good thing or not. Is it normal for my heart ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, significant fluctuations in heart rate can be normal. A heart rate of 120 while active, 80 when sitting, and 70 when lying down is considered normal. An electrocardiogram (ECG) shows no arrhythmias, and palpitations are likely caused by anxiety. As long as your echocardiog...[Read More] Understanding Heart Rate Variability: Is It Normal or Cause for Concern?
Understanding Heart Rhythm Disorders Linked to Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Depression, bipolar disorder, and arrhythmia? I apologize for bothering you, Director. May I ask if arrhythmias caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction are normal and pose no life-threatening risk? Recently, I have been experiencing increased panic and anxiety. The doctor ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, stop searching for information online. If you want to scare yourself, keep looking. There are many sensational claims on the internet. Experiencing a hundred or so palpitations a day is really not that uncommon, and it's not easy to be in serious danger. Please stop f...[Read More] Understanding Heart Rhythm Disorders Linked to Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Managing Medication Side Effects: Tremors and Heart Rate Concerns
The side effects of psychotropic medications include body tremors (shaking hands) and discomfort from anti-side effect medications such as heart rhythm pills or Kankun? Hello, Doctor: I am currently taking psychiatric medications (lithium, SSRIs, and other mood stabilizers). The ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
A heart rate maintained between 60 to 100 beats per minute is considered acceptable. For other concerns, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist.[Read More] Managing Medication Side Effects: Tremors and Heart Rate Concerns
Understanding Rapid Heart Rate: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Increased heart rate? I apologize for bothering you again, but since my heart rate has been elevated, I started taking a heart rhythm medication this morning. However, every time I lie in bed in the morning (before taking the medication) and check my heart rate monitor, it shows ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, your heartbeat is not abnormal; it's actually normal for it to fluctuate due to anxiety. If it's normal, there's no need to overly focus on it. The heart rhythm medication is very safe, so take it in a way that feels comfortable and reassuring for you. There...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heart Rate: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Managing Rapid Heartbeat in Stressful Situations: When to Seek Help?
In a stressful environment, if you experience a rapid heartbeat, is there a need for intervention? Hello Doctor: My usual heart rate is around 80 to 100 beats per minute. I don't experience an increase in heart rate without reason, but I tend to get anxious, especially when ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, regarding the issue of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, no special treatment is needed; observation is sufficient. It will not and cannot continue to escalate indefinitely. Don't worry, Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Managing Rapid Heartbeat in Stressful Situations: When to Seek Help?
Does Kirkland Hair Growth Solution Cause Rapid Heartbeat?
Tachycardia caused by hair growth lotion? Hello doctor, I have recently been using Kirkland's 5% minoxidil solution, but after each application, I experience an increased heart rate for about 30 minutes. The official website also mentions that if I have such symptoms, I shou...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Kirkland 5% Minoxidil solution is a product used for the treatment of male pattern baldness or female hair loss. It has vasodilatory effects, which may potentially cause side effects such as increased heart rate and palpitations. Generally, these effects are not serious, but indi...[Read More] Does Kirkland Hair Growth Solution Cause Rapid Heartbeat?
Understanding Heart Rate Variations: When to Worry and Medication Effects
Medication consultation Thank you, Doctor, for providing me with so much medical knowledge. I would like to ask you again: is a simple increase in heart rate not a disease and poses no life-threatening risk? I might have been really scared during my emergency visit when my heart ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, that's correct. A simple fast heartbeat is not a disease and does not pose a life-threatening risk. There's no need to be afraid or rush to the emergency room. Rest and take it easy; it's normal for your heart rate to increase to 120-130 beats per minute whe...[Read More] Understanding Heart Rate Variations: When to Worry and Medication Effects