Comparing the Efficacy of Atorvastatin and Pitavastatin for Cholesterol Reduction
The efficacy of lipid-lowering medications? Hello, I would like to ask: Is the lipid-lowering effect of Atoroty 20mg (Atorvastatin) significantly stronger than that of Livalo OD 2mg (Pitavastatin), or is the efficacy of the two medications not that different? Thank you for your r...
Dr. Cai Guiqin Reply:
We recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. Thank you, and best wishes for your health![Read More] Comparing the Efficacy of Atorvastatin and Pitavastatin for Cholesterol Reduction
Can Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Fly Safely?
Can a person with atrial fibrillation fly on an airplane? Hello, doctor: May I ask if patients with atrial fibrillation can fly?
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: Patients with atrial fibrillation can fly. However, it is important to take precautions when traveling long distances. They should carry and continue their regular medications (such as anticoagulants and antihypertensive drugs) to avoid complications due to interruption in...[Read More] Can Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Fly Safely?
Calcium-Free Statins: Which Cholesterol Medications to Choose?
Calcium-free lipid-lowering medications? Hello, could you please let me know if there are any statin medications that do not contain calcium? If so, which statin medications are calcium-free? Thank you for your assistance.
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, statin medications themselves do not contain calcium; however, I am not sure about the additives used by different manufacturers. Apologies for any confusion, and thank you for your concern from Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Calcium-Free Statins: Which Cholesterol Medications to Choose?
Understanding Exercise ECG Results: What Does Oxygen Deprivation Mean?
Interpretation of Exercise Electrocardiogram Hello Doctor, I recently experienced chest tightness and difficulty breathing, feeling like I couldn't take a full breath, so I made an appointment with a cardiologist. The doctor said that my electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardi...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, having only one lead with abnormalities may not be a problem. It depends on whether you are experiencing any discomfort. Otherwise, it should be fine to observe for now. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Exercise ECG Results: What Does Oxygen Deprivation Mean?
Alternatives to Berkey: Managing Side Effects and Blood in Stool
The side effect of Berkey medication is profuse bloody stools? Hello: My father is a dialysis patient. Two months ago, he underwent cardiac catheterization and had two drug-eluting stents placed. The doctor prescribed Brilinta (ticagrelor) and Clopidogrel (Plavix) to be taken onc...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Alternatives to Berkey: Managing Side Effects and Blood in Stool
Managing Palpitations and Blood Pressure: Medication Concerns Explained
Medication issues related to palpitations? Hello Doctor, I have hyperthyroidism and have been taking one dose of anti-thyroid medication and one dose of a heart rhythm medication daily for the past three months. Sometimes I feel a bit fatigued. When I measure my blood pressure at...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, most people do not experience a decrease in blood pressure when taking heart rhythm medications, but individual responses can vary. It's difficult to say if your fatigue is due to low blood pressure; it's important to first understand what your blood pressure is ...[Read More] Managing Palpitations and Blood Pressure: Medication Concerns Explained
Understanding Arrhythmia: Concerns About Medication Dependency and Symptoms
Arrhythmia Recently, I have been experiencing a sensation of breathlessness and difficulty in speaking, as if my chest is tight. The ENT clinic recommended that I consult with a pulmonologist and a cardiologist. The pulmonologist indicated that my lung function tests were normal ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, medications do not cause dependency. If your arrhythmia episodes are infrequent, long-term medication may not be necessary. It's important not to put too much psychological pressure on yourself; do what makes you feel comfortable. If taking medication helps you feel b...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Concerns About Medication Dependency and Symptoms
Understanding Side Effects of Zulitor 4mg: A Patient's Experience
The side effects of Zulitor 4mg (4 mg film-coated tablets) may include: My grandfather has severe cardiovascular blockage and has previously had a stent placed. The doctor prescribed Zulitor 4 mg extended-release tablets, which he started taking on June 13. However, he began expe...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
The most common adverse reactions to Zulitor include muscle pain, back pain, diarrhea, constipation, and limb pain. It is recommended to consult a physician for a possible switch to other lipid-lowering medications.[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Zulitor 4mg: A Patient's Experience
Understanding Coronary Artery Spasms and Ventricular Tachycardia: Key Insights
Questions related to coronary artery spasm, ventricular tachycardia, and myocardial disease (LGE)? Dear Director He, I have read many of your patient responses and analyses with great patience, which has encouraged me to muster the courage to inquire about my ongoing concerns re...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, is it possible for LGE to disappear after taking medications that increase blood flow? The likelihood is low, but it is still possible for LGE to resolve. In terms of my ventricular tachycardia, is there a chance of recovery? Theoretically, it is quite possible; myocardial...[Read More] Understanding Coronary Artery Spasms and Ventricular Tachycardia: Key Insights
Understanding Heart Health: Echocardiogram and 24-Hour Holter Monitor Insights
Echocardiogram 24-hour Holter monitor? Hello Doctor, I have recently been feeling that my heart rate fluctuates between fast and slow, and I often feel missed beats. I'm not sure if it's just psychological, but I also experience some pain around my heart area. I would l...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, there are no significant issues, just some mild mitral valve prolapse. There's no need to worry. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Heart Health: Echocardiogram and 24-Hour Holter Monitor Insights
Managing Cardiovascular Medications: Side Effects and Concerns
Cardiovascular and medication issues? I have been taking Metoprolol for over two years. Recently, for more than a month, I reduced my dosage by half a pill, and my blood pressure has been controlled at around 110-120/70-80. Two years ago, when I started taking Metoprolol, I didn&...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you! Wishing you good health![Read More] Managing Cardiovascular Medications: Side Effects and Concerns
Comparing Atorvastatin and Pitavastatin: Efficacy in Lowering Cholesterol
Amitriptyline enteric-coated tablets and Loperamide orally disintegrating tablets? Hello, I would like to ask: Are the lipid-lowering effects of these two medications, Atoroty 20mg (Atorvastatin) and Livalo OD 2mg (Pitavastatin), the same? Or are they different, with one having a...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Atoroty 20mg tablet (Atorvastatin) has a stronger effect on lowering blood lipids compared to Livalo OD tablet 2mg (Pitavastatin).[Read More] Comparing Atorvastatin and Pitavastatin: Efficacy in Lowering Cholesterol
Should You See a Doctor for Low Heart Rate and Fatigue?
Heart rate issues Recently, my Apple Watch has recorded my heart rate while sitting or lying down to be around 50-70 beats per minute (when I am not asleep), and I feel fatigued and drowsy. I am currently taking psychiatric medications (anti-anxiety medications and SSRIs). Is it ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
A normal heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. If there is a noticeable decrease in heart rate, it is advisable to go to the hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) examination.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Low Heart Rate and Fatigue?
Can Vitamin D Supplements Interact with Blood Pressure Medications?
Pukang enteric-coated tablets for hypertension treatment? I have been taking coated tablets for hypertension for almost a year. Due to osteoporosis, I have a deficiency of 4. I would like to take some vitamin D to supplement calcium, but I am unsure if this is advisable. If I tak...
Dr. Cai Guiqin Reply:
We recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Can Vitamin D Supplements Interact with Blood Pressure Medications?
Understanding Side Effects of Pletaal in Cardiovascular Patients
Side effects of Pletaal (cilostazol)? Hello, my father is a dialysis patient and was recently diagnosed with severe narrowing of the calf arteries. The doctor prescribed Pletaal (cilostazol) 100 mg, to be taken once in the morning and once in the evening, and Lipitor (atorvastati...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello, Pletaal is an antiplatelet medication used to promote blood circulation, while Lipitor is a cholesterol-lowering drug. Pharmacologically, neither of these medications directly causes an increased heart rate. Many other conditions can lead to an increased heart rate, such a...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Pletaal in Cardiovascular Patients
Understanding Arrhythmias: Questions on Diagnosis and Medication Choices
Arrhythmia report and medication inquiries? Hello Doctor, here are the contents of my report: 24-Hour Holter Monitor Report *Basic Rhythm: The basic rhythm is sinus rhythm (SR), with a ventricular rate of 46 to 111 bpm, including 29 atrial premature contractions (APCs) and 12,...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you have ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) and are currently taking Diltiazem 6.25 mg and a rhythm stabilizer. Essentially, Diltiazem 6.25 mg is a similar medication that may lower blood pressure by about 13%. Ventricular premature contractions are generally benign...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmias: Questions on Diagnosis and Medication Choices
Understanding Heart Health: Risks After Normal Coronary Angiography
Coronary Angiography I would like to ask if having undergone a coronary angiography a year ago with no abnormalities, no calcification, and no stenosis still poses a risk for cardiovascular disease. Recently, I have been experiencing persistent pain in my left shoulder, along wit...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, a year ago you underwent coronary angiography which showed no abnormalities, no calcification, and no stenosis. While the risk of developing cardiovascular disease remains low, it is still present. You are experiencing pain in your left shoulder, back, and cervical spine. ...[Read More] Understanding Heart Health: Risks After Normal Coronary Angiography
Managing Slow Heart Rate: Concerns with KanKen and XinLiZheng Medications
Bradycardia, issues with the use of Heart Rate Regulating medications such as Cardizem and Concor? Hello, Doctor. I have hypothyroidism, which has been well-controlled with medication for many years. Last August, I experienced chest tightness, chest pain, and fatigue, and was dia...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, feeling very fatigued could be due to a slow heart rate or hypothyroidism. It is recommended to consider medications that improve sleep. Regarding the medication Heartil, my suggestion is to hold off on taking it for now and observe your condition. Changhua Hospital cares ...[Read More] Managing Slow Heart Rate: Concerns with KanKen and XinLiZheng Medications
Pregnancy Complications: Heart Symptoms and Seeking Medical Advice
Pregnancy-related symptom consultation Hello Doctor, I am a 30-week pregnant woman. Before pregnancy, my health check showed slightly elevated TSH levels, but the endocrinologist said it was only a little high and that I didn't need to follow up. Prior to pregnancy, I experi...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Due to the different endocrine status of pregnant women compared to the general population, it is recommended that you consult both a cardiologist and an endocrinologist to check for any abnormalities.[Read More] Pregnancy Complications: Heart Symptoms and Seeking Medical Advice
Why Do Doctors Change Blood Pressure Medications When Patients Are Stable?
Why does the doctor insist on changing the medication when I am doing well on my hypertension medication? Hello Doctor: My mother-in-law is 67 years old and has a habit of walking for exercise. She has been taking antihypertensive medication for a long time. After three months of...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
There are many reasons for changing medication, and it is advisable to consult the original prescribing physician. If a prescription needs to be modified, it must be voided by the original physician.[Read More] Why Do Doctors Change Blood Pressure Medications When Patients Are Stable?