Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Risks, Treatments, and Prognosis
Dilated cardiomyopathy Hello, I am currently a 22-year-old university student. On December 20, 2017, I was admitted to the emergency room and diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, pulmonary edema, arrhythmia, heart failure, and mitral regurgitation. I am currently receiving trea...
Dr. Lin Jixiong Reply:
Hello: No one can predict how much longer one can live, but it is essential to limit salt intake and restrict water to 1200 cc per day. Take medications on time and regularly discuss other matters with your physician. Regarding issues related to heart transplantation and rejectio...[Read More] Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Risks, Treatments, and Prognosis
Understanding Unexplained Rapid Heartbeat and Facial Numbness
Unexplained rapid heartbeat and facial numbness? Occasionally (about 1 to 2 times a month), I experience a sudden increase in heart rate to around 100 beats per minute, accompanied by slight difficulty in breathing and facial numbness. I previously underwent an echocardiogram at ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if you are experiencing autonomic nervous system dysfunction, taking anti-anxiety and cardiovascular medications may be sufficient. If you still have concerns, you can arrange for autonomic nervous system testing. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Rapid Heartbeat and Facial Numbness
Managing Heart Valve Issues: Can I Still Exercise with Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Cardiac issues? Recently, I have been experiencing chest tightness and numbness in my hands. After undergoing an ultrasound examination, I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation and tricuspid regurgitation. My left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD) ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, your heart condition is okay, so there's no need to worry. You have mild mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation and tricuspid regurgitation, but these are not related to your hand numbness or heart issues. It seems that your symptoms are likely due to autonomic nerv...[Read More] Managing Heart Valve Issues: Can I Still Exercise with Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Managing Hypertension: Understanding Home vs. Clinic Blood Pressure Readings
Inquiry about hypertension issues? Hello Doctor, (1) I have been monitoring my blood pressure since I was 18, and it was recorded at 160/90. Subsequently, during regular check-ups at the hospital, it has consistently been above 179/95. By the age of 30, I started taking antihyp...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, that's correct. White coat syndrome can cause blood pressure readings in the hospital to reach as high as 170/100. Therefore, current treatment guidelines suggest that monitoring blood pressure at home is more important. How can we overcome this issue to ensure that t...[Read More] Managing Hypertension: Understanding Home vs. Clinic Blood Pressure Readings
Understanding Low Platelet Count in Elderly Patients: Risks and Treatments
The platelet count is 13,000? My grandmother is 90 years old. Recently, the doctor mentioned that her cardiac index is slightly elevated and there may be a possibility of coronary artery blockage, requiring catheterization. If necessary, a stent might need to be placed during the...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if you are experiencing spontaneous bleeding, it is advisable to see a hematologist as soon as possible. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding Low Platelet Count in Elderly Patients: Risks and Treatments
Prioritizing Cardiovascular Care: A Self-Assessment Guide for Patients
I have a lot of physical and mental health issues that I need to self-assess, and I would like to ask the director to evaluate the priority of treatment? Self-assessment items for evaluating physical and mental health issues: Have you ever been diagnosed with the following unde...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you may consider using a positive airway pressure (PAP) device to treat moderate obstructive sleep apnea. First, continue to manage your blood pressure, and for now, just observe other conditions. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Prioritizing Cardiovascular Care: A Self-Assessment Guide for Patients
Understanding Heart Catheterization: Options for Managing Blockages
Cardiac catheterization? I have been diagnosed with hyperlipidemia (for an uncertain duration), diabetes (with a 6-year history), and a 2 cm vestibular schwannoma (diagnosed about a year ago). In December 2017, a nuclear medicine scan revealed that one of the three main coronary ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if the symptoms are not significant and there is a 50% blockage, you can start with medication and observe. Medication will not improve or reverse the blockage; it can only stabilize the symptoms without any changes. If you really do not want to undergo surgery, then takin...[Read More] Understanding Heart Catheterization: Options for Managing Blockages
Managing Blood Pressure Medications: A Guide for Postmenopausal Women
Blood pressure medication issues? Hello Doctor: Since the onset of menopause, my blood pressure has been unstable, fluctuating between high and low. At the hospital and clinic, my blood pressure readings have been around 150-160/80-90. Four months ago, I started medication: Bisop...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you don't need to take medication. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure Medications: A Guide for Postmenopausal Women
Minoxidil Use in Patients with Congenital Heart Disease: Risks and Benefits
Minoxidil and Heart Disease Hello, doctor! I have congenital heart disease (Tetralogy of Fallot) and underwent surgery over 20 years ago. I have regular follow-ups every year and do not take any heart-related medications. However, I have been experiencing severe hair loss in rece...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it actually doesn't have a significant impact. If you're concerned, you can try using topical minoxidil, such as Rogaine. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Minoxidil Use in Patients with Congenital Heart Disease: Risks and Benefits
Understanding Persistent Chest Discomfort After Normal Heart Catheterization
Chest discomfort (continuation of #130963) Hello, Doctor. After a normal cardiac catheterization in January last year, I have been experiencing persistent chest discomfort. Recently, the frequency of these episodes has increased. During my follow-up visit, the doctor suggested a ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello. Generally, the likelihood of issues arising within five years is low. It sounds like it could be a vascular spasm. If nitroglycerin (NTG) can alleviate the discomfort, then that should be the initial approach. Alternatively, you may ask your physician to prescribe some aut...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Chest Discomfort After Normal Heart Catheterization
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Treatment, and Lifestyle Tips
Mitral valve prolapse Hello, Director. I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse during an echocardiogram in November. I have had several ECGs, all of which showed no issues. The doctor prescribed me three medications: Rhythm Control Tablet 10 mg, Zanaflex 0.5 mg, and a 0.5 mg s...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, 1. No one will experience serious issues due to prolapse, so there's no need to worry. 2. Whether heart rhythm medications cause discomfort can vary by brand; some individuals may be more sensitive, and the efficacy may feel different depending on the manufacturer....[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Treatment, and Lifestyle Tips
Chronic Leg Pain: Seeking Solutions for Vascular and Nerve Issues
Foot pain issues? Hello Doctor, my mother is 63 years old and has been suffering from foot pain for many years. She has seen specialists in neurology, orthopedics, rehabilitation, vascular surgery, and dermatology, and has tried various medications. She has also undergone balloon...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, I apologize for not being able to see the patient in person. Without a direct examination, I cannot provide you with more accurate advice. I recommend discussing the next treatment strategy with your attending physician. Take care, Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.[Read More] Chronic Leg Pain: Seeking Solutions for Vascular and Nerve Issues
Understanding Myocardial Ischemia: Risks, Monitoring, and Medication Management
Myocardial hypoxia Dear Dr. He, I had an exercise electrocardiogram last September, and the doctor indicated that there was myocardial ischemia, classified as moderate risk. Later, I underwent a myocardial perfusion scan at another hospital, where the doctor reported the finding...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
According to current research, patients with stable angina who are on medication management and have undergone cardiac catheterization do not need to repeat exercise stress tests or myocardial perfusion studies, as the results are expected to be similar to the previous ones. Repe...[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Ischemia: Risks, Monitoring, and Medication Management
Breathlessness with Minimal Activity: Understanding Cardiovascular Concerns
Experiencing shortness of breath with minimal exertion? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing chest discomfort frequently over the past two years. In January of last year, I underwent a cardiac catheterization at the hospital, and the doctor said everything was normal. Aside fro...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the results of your cardiac catheterization are normal, which means there is nothing to worry about. However, have you been checked for mitral valve prolapse, gastroesophageal reflux, or post-nasal drip? Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Breathlessness with Minimal Activity: Understanding Cardiovascular Concerns
Struggling with Palpitations and Sleep Issues: A Heart Health Concern
Palpitations and inability to sleep? The heart has a problem with mitral valve prolapse. Over the past year or two, I have experienced occasional feelings of weakness in my heart, and at times, a sudden sensation of rapid and forceful heartbeat. After a consultation, I was diagno...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello Jessi, it is recommended to follow up at the cardiology outpatient clinic and consider using some autonomic nervous system medications or heart rate control medications. Don't worry, Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Struggling with Palpitations and Sleep Issues: A Heart Health Concern
Understanding Heart Discomfort: When to Seek Further Cardiac Evaluation
Discomfort in the heart? First, I would like to thank the doctor for taking the time to respond despite their busy schedule. About two years ago, I began to frequently experience chest tightness and episodes of my heart suddenly racing. After seeking medical attention, I underwen...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, this sounds like typical autonomic nervous system dysfunction. You may simply need to consult a psychiatrist for a medication adjustment, and there should be no need for another cardiac examination. Pingan Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Heart Discomfort: When to Seek Further Cardiac Evaluation
Managing Deep Vein Thrombosis: Medication Side Effects and Treatment Options
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) On August 10, I underwent lower limb angiography to confirm deep vein thrombosis. The physician prescribed Warfarin in round pink tablets, with an initial dosage of 0.5 tablets. However, due to elevated blood test results, the dosage was adjusted to 0.3...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, You-Wen. Regarding the orthopedic surgery for treating the embolism, it is possible to remove the steel pins during the procedure. There are also various medications available that can be discussed with your physician for a potential change in treatment. Changhua Hospital ...[Read More] Managing Deep Vein Thrombosis: Medication Side Effects and Treatment Options
Understanding Chest Pain: Is It Myocarditis or Anxiety?
Intermittent chest tightness or discomfort? Hello Doctor: I have recently been experiencing a feeling of tightness and pain in my left chest, and I feel that my immune system is not very strong (two months ago, I had a painful tonsillar abscess, which led to a viral infection of ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it doesn't seem like myocarditis. Having a weakened immune system may increase the risk of developing myocarditis, but I haven't heard of that. Information found online is often inaccurate. Currently, it appears that there was a previous infection, and now there ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Is It Myocarditis or Anxiety?
Understanding Myocardial Hypoxia: Treatment and Monitoring Guidelines
Myocardial hypoxia Dear Dr. He, Last September, I underwent an exercise electrocardiogram that showed a positive response with signs of hypoxia. Three months later, I had a myocardial perfusion scan at another hospital, where the risk level from the exercise electrocardiogram wa...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, unless you undergo cardiac catheterization or a computed tomography angiography to confirm that the blood vessels are normal, a positive exercise electrocardiogram report indicates hypoxia, and the myocardial perfusion scan shows mild to moderate results. Would you dare to...[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Hypoxia: Treatment and Monitoring Guidelines
Can You Stop Heart Medication After One Day of Breathing Issues?
If you have been taking heart medication for a day and are experiencing shortness of breath, should you stop the medication? Or how can you improve the situation? My mother is 83 years old and has asthma and hypertension. For the past three years, she has been using a bronchodila...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you can stop the medication for now and discuss any adjustments with your physician during the outpatient visit. It appears that there are episodes of arrhythmia, but it seems more like a change in your condition. Due to your orthopnea, it is advisable to return for an ear...[Read More] Can You Stop Heart Medication After One Day of Breathing Issues?