Consultation on Switching Cholesterol Medications: Dosage Concerns
Consultation on Cholesterol-Lowering Medications Hello Dr. He: In the past six months, I have been taking medication to lower my cholesterol. I was originally taking 200 mg of Ezetimibe once a day, but today when I went to pick up my medication, I was informed that it was out of ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, whether you eat it once or twice is not important; the frequency depends on the drug's half-life. Short-acting medications require more frequent dosing, while long-acting medications can be taken once a day. Don't worry, it's not too much. Changhua Hospital ...[Read More] Consultation on Switching Cholesterol Medications: Dosage Concerns
Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Causes and Treatment Options
I'm sorry, but I cannot provide a translation for Thank you, Director. I have a few more questions to ask. It seems that many people experience premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), and I have over 300 occurrences; why do I feel it so strongly? If I don't take beta...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, is this feeling so intense? It varies from person to person; each individual's reaction to arrhythmia is different. It's not necessarily the case that a higher frequency means a stronger sensation. Management can involve medications or other stress-relief methods...[Read More] Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Causes and Treatment Options
Managing Side Effects of Heart Medications: When to Consider a Change
Medication issues Dear Dr. He, I would like to inquire about heart medications. Three years ago, I had an abnormal exercise electrocardiogram that indicated myocardial ischemia, and my heart rate was around 110 beats per minute. My doctor prescribed Bisoprolol 100 mg and Concor ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, yes, it is true that Concerta can have side effects related to sexual dysfunction. If you have been taking it for three years, did you experience these side effects before? If they have only recently appeared, they may not necessarily be related to the medication. Changing...[Read More] Managing Side Effects of Heart Medications: When to Consider a Change
Interactions Between Pentoxifylline and Ciprofloxacin: What You Need to Know
The interaction between Pentoxifylline 400mg and antibiotics? I have poor blood circulation, and my cardiologist prescribed Pentoxifylline 400 mg to be taken three times a day. Currently, I am also taking the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice a day for a urinary infection. I ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Pentoxifylline is an antiplatelet medication, not an anticoagulant, and it has no interactions with Ciprofloxacin.[Read More] Interactions Between Pentoxifylline and Ciprofloxacin: What You Need to Know
Managing Myocardial Bridge: Medication Insights and Patient Concerns
Medications for myocardial bridge? Dear Dr. He, I was diagnosed with myocardial bridge 11 years ago through a CT scan, located at the proximal segment of the left anterior descending artery. I have been consistently taking medication and managing my hypertension, hyperlipidemia,...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, myocardial bridge does not necessarily worsen with age. In Taiwan, the final proportion of patients undergoing bypass surgery is 0. Medication should primarily focus on controlling the three highs (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes). Currently, there are no effect...[Read More] Managing Myocardial Bridge: Medication Insights and Patient Concerns
Consulting About Heart Medications: Timing and Safety Concerns
Medication consultation Hello, doctor. I have around 800 premature ventricular contractions. The doctor prescribed me half a 5 mg dose of Concor to take in the morning. Can I move this medication to take it before bed? Will this cause a risk of having a slow heart rate while slee...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you can move the medication to take it before bedtime. However, if your main discomfort occurs during the day, it is still recommended to take half a tablet in the morning. The effectiveness of the medication varies from person to person and can last from half a day to a f...[Read More] Consulting About Heart Medications: Timing and Safety Concerns
Understanding Your 24-Hour ECG Results: Key Insights and Next Steps
24-hour Holter monitor? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing chest tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and occasional heart pauses. I visited the hospital, and the doctor arranged for a 24-hour electrocardiogram (ECG), with the report results as follows: 1. Si...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, this electrocardiogram report is within the normal range, so there is no need for concern. You should observe your condition for now and there is no need for further testing or medication at this time. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Your 24-Hour ECG Results: Key Insights and Next Steps
Understanding VPC Management: Beta Blockers vs. Antiarrhythmic Medications
Medication consultation Hello, Director. I would like to ask about the 24-hour Holter monitor which detected over 800 VPCs. Previously, I was taking 10 mg of a rhythm control medication which was effective, but later I experienced missed beats. The doctor switched me to half a 5 ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, I personally believe that using a sledgehammer to crack a nut is unnecessary for treating VPCs with over 800 beats. I think it's manageable, but there may be a feeling of missed beats. The dosage of beta-blockers can be adjusted based on symptoms. The side effects of ...[Read More] Understanding VPC Management: Beta Blockers vs. Antiarrhythmic Medications
Does Concan Cause Erectile Dysfunction in Heart Patients?
Can cancer cause sexual dysfunction? The patient has a stent in the heart and takes half a tablet of Concor 5 mg daily, one tablet of Lipitor 5/20 mg, and one tablet of Clopidogrel 75/100 mg. The patient also has high cholesterol and hypertension issues. Clopidogrel is used for t...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Kankun is a beta-blocker used for cardiovascular purposes and can also lower blood pressure. If it affects sexual function, you can discuss with your prescribing physician about switching to another medication.[Read More] Does Concan Cause Erectile Dysfunction in Heart Patients?
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Heart rate issues Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, sometimes I feel my heart racing and it makes me uncomfortable, and sometimes I even feel it at night while sleeping. Usually, when this happens, I have to take several deep breaths to feel better. Recently, I visited a nearby ...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: The sensation of feeling your own heartbeat is referred to as palpitations. There are many situations that can cause palpitations, commonly including lifestyle stress, tobacco and alcohol use, and even changes in temperature. Certain medical conditions are also associated ...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse and Aortic Regurgitation: Treatment Options
Mitral valve prolapse, aortic valve insufficiency, and mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing chest pain and intermittent pain on the left side of my heart. After a check-up with a cardiologist, I was diagnosed with mild mitral valve prol...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, Kang Ken 1.25 and Zanano 0.5 are primarily used to treat mild autonomic nervous system disorders associated with mitral valve prolapse and regurgitation. Generally, observation is sufficient, and no treatment is necessary. You can try taking Kang Ken 1.25, one tablet in th...[Read More] Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse and Aortic Regurgitation: Treatment Options
Managing Blood Pressure After Stroke: Key Considerations and Tips
Blood pressure control Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my mother, who had a stroke on January 11 of this year. During her hospitalization, her blood pressure was controlled between 120-150 mmHg. However, after moving and switching hospitals, her blood pressure is now betw...
Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, "Your daughter has a history of hypertension and stroke. Since her stroke in January, her blood pressure has been relatively stable in the range of 120-150, but recently there have been greater fluctuations, now ranging from 130-170, mostly aro...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure After Stroke: Key Considerations and Tips
Understanding Diltiazem and Its Long-Term Use for Heart Health
Cardiology: Somil S.C. Tab - 40mg or Diltiazem (Cartil) 60mg, take one tablet at bedtime? Cardiology: Somil S.C. Tab - 40mg or Diltiazem (Cartil) 60mg, take one at bedtime. Psychiatry: At bedtime: Zoloft (Sertraline) 50mg * 2 tablets, Mirtazapine 50mg * 2 tablets, Clonazepam 50mg...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
1. This medication can treat palpitations and is safe for long-term use. 2. Due to your excessive use of medications, it is recommended that you seek professional consultation from a pharmacist at a hospital.[Read More] Understanding Diltiazem and Its Long-Term Use for Heart Health
Understanding Nighttime Panic: Is It Related to Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction?
Waking up suddenly just before falling asleep may be related to the autonomic nervous system? Hello Doctor, as per the title, I have experienced several episodes in the past few days where I wake up suddenly just as I'm about to fall asleep, accompanied by a bit of panic. I ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Symptoms may persist, but using some simple medications before sleep can help. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Panic: Is It Related to Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction?
Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Causes and Management
Ventricular premature contraction (VPC) Hello, Doctor. I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask about my 24-hour Holter monitor results, which showed 200-300 ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) and over 60 atrial premature contractions (APCs). My echocardiogram wa...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Simple APCs (Atrial Premature Contractions) and VPCs (Ventricular Premature Contractions) do not require electrical ablation. It is recommended to maintain a normal lifestyle and engage in regular exercise. If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult your ...[Read More] Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Causes and Management
Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Causes, Risks, and Management
Ventricular premature contraction (VPC) Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. I have been monitoring my heart for 24 hours and have detected 200-300 premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and over 50 premature atrial contractions (PACs). My echocardiogram is normal, and...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, panic disorder can cause sudden rapid heartbeats and missed beats, but it is not life-threatening, so there is no need to worry. You can alleviate the symptoms by taking medications like Kankun and Deyuanxu without rushing to seek medical attention. Peace of mind from Chan...[Read More] Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Causes, Risks, and Management
Understanding Exercise ECG Results: What Your Heart Health Report Means
Interpretation of Exercise Electrocardiogram Previously, I occasionally experienced chest tightness while playing basketball. Recently, I had a sensation of chest pain even when I wasn't exercising, but there was no shortness of breath or sweating, and the pain did not radia...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, your creatine phosphokinase level is 429. Playing basketball may affect this value. Your low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is 137, which is not considered high cholesterol, and you do not need medication; dietary control is sufficient. According to the Duke treadmill sco...[Read More] Understanding Exercise ECG Results: What Your Heart Health Report Means
Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Medication Effectiveness and Timeline
Ventricular premature contraction (VPC) Hello Doctor, thank you very much for your previous response. I have been taking the medication for almost two weeks now. My current medication regimen mainly includes rhythm control medications, INDERAL, and VALIUM (0.25 mg), along with Ca...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the heart occasionally skipping beats is not a major concern, and it indicates improvement. The main thing is that the heart continues to function well for a long time. As long as there are no serious issues, it's fine. If you keep paying attention to it, it may becom...[Read More] Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions: Medication Effectiveness and Timeline
Managing Premature Ventricular Contractions: Medication and Treatment Options
Ventricular premature contraction (VPC) Hello Doctor, I had a 24-hour Holter monitor that diagnosed me with over 200 ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) and more than 50 atrial premature contractions (APCs). The doctor prescribed Dronedarone and Concor 1.25 mg (once in the ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
You can either eat more or observe, as having over 200 premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) is considered mild and can be monitored. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Managing Premature Ventricular Contractions: Medication and Treatment Options
Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: Heart Palpitations and Medications
Is it autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Hello Doctor, this is Mr. Yu, inquiry number 159498. I still have some questions to ask. 1) Does taking propranolol and sertraline have any impact on the liver? 2) Recently, I sometimes experience a brief (one to two seconds) feeling of...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, propranolol and sertraline do not have an impact on the liver. A brief feeling of palpitations or discomfort is normal and can be classified as cardiac neurosis, which is similar to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: Heart Palpitations and Medications