Understanding Heart Murmurs: Causes, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips
Heart murmur Recently, a physical examination revealed a heart murmur (systolic) associated with the aorta, and the examining physician indicated it is related to a valvular issue. The murmur appears to be quite loud and can also be heard in the carotid arteries. Additionally, a ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
In response to Howard: If there are significant heart murmurs clinically, an echocardiogram is usually required to determine the underlying issue causing the murmur. If it is confirmed that the aortic valve is the source of the problem, it is also necessary to assess the severity...[Read More] Understanding Heart Murmurs: Causes, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Sinus Bradycardia: What Does a Heart Rate of 41 BPM Mean?
Bradycardia What is sinus bradycardia with a heart rate of 41 beats per minute?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply to EUGENE: A heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute that originates from the sinoatrial node is referred to as sinus bradycardia. If there are symptoms such as dizziness or hypotension, treatment is necessary. If there are no symptoms, follow-up in a cardiology outpati...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Bradycardia: What Does a Heart Rate of 41 BPM Mean?
Understanding Chest Pain: Heart Issues or Other Causes?
Heart disease or thoracic issues? Hello, doctor. Sometimes I experience pain in my left chest and a feeling of weakness. I suspect it might be a "heart problem" (but I have had an electrocardiogram in the past that showed no abnormalities). What treatment should I seek?...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
In young individuals, the most common cause of chest pain is neuromuscular inflammation due to tension, followed by pleuritis, pericarditis, or mitral valve prolapse. Please visit a thoracic clinic for evaluation, which should include a chest X-ray and echocardiogram.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Heart Issues or Other Causes?
Understanding Normal Heart Rate: What Should It Be Per Minute?
Heart rate The normal human heart rate should be between 60 to 100 beats per minute.
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
In a normal person, the heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate below 60 beats per minute is referred to as bradycardia, while a heart rate above 100 beats per minute is referred to as tachycardia.[Read More] Understanding Normal Heart Rate: What Should It Be Per Minute?
Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Palpitations Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my frequent palpitations. I often feel my heart beating very strongly. For instance, when I lie down and watch TV with the remote control placed on my chest, the remote moves with my heartbeat. I frequently experience chest tig...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
Hyperthyroidism can cause palpitations, but other conditions such as irregular heartbeat, heart problems, and stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system can also lead to palpitations. To reduce the occurrence of palpitations, in addition to monitoring thyroid function, it is i...[Read More] Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Is It a Heart Problem? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Further Testing
Is this a heart problem? Hello Doctor: I previously had an electrocardiogram (ECG) at the hospital, which lasted only one to two minutes. The doctor diagnosed me with a slight arrhythmia and said it was nothing to worry about. However, I felt that my condition during the ECG was ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Young males can occasionally experience arrhythmias, but most are benign and transient. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, coffee, and tea, as well as maintaining a regular routine, is crucial. If symptoms persist and cause discomfort, a 24-hour Holter monitor can be arranged. Thyroid fu...[Read More] Is It a Heart Problem? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Further Testing
Understanding Heart Valve Issues and Hypertension: Risks and Treatments
Heart disease & hypertension Hello, Dr. Ko. My boyfriend has been experiencing chest tightness due to stress for quite some time, to the point where he couldn't sleep. After much persuasion, he finally went to the hospital for an examination. He said the doctor informed ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
If a young male has a blood pressure of 180/130, he must seek emergency treatment for malignant hypertension and be hospitalized for further evaluation to determine the cause of the hypertension. Unless there are severe congenital anomalies or abnormalities of the heart and major...[Read More] Understanding Heart Valve Issues and Hypertension: Risks and Treatments
Understanding Arrhythmia: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Arrhythmia Arrhythmia is defined as an irregular heartbeat, which can manifest as a heart that beats too fast, too slow, or in an uncoordinated manner. Treatment for arrhythmia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It can range from lifestyle changes and ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Xiaowen: It is common for young women to experience occasional palpitations and irregular heartbeats. However, if the symptoms persist, it is recommended to undergo a 24-hour Holter monitor and consult a cardiologist for examination and treatment (avoid coffee and tea beve...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Marfan Syndrome: Symptoms and Health Concerns
What is troublesome syndrome? Long limbs, long fingers, poor eyesight, and recently experiencing discomfort in the heart.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello: Marfan Syndrome is a congenital genetic disorder characterized by long limbs and fingers, dislocated lenses affecting vision, and an increased risk of heart valve problems and aortic dissection. Therefore, if you experience any cardiac discomfort, please seek evaluation fr...[Read More] Understanding Marfan Syndrome: Symptoms and Health Concerns
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Management, and Treatment Options
Mitral valve prolapse Could you please tell me, doctor... my girlfriend has this condition... and it has been occurring frequently lately... she is feeling very uncomfortable... can you advise me on how to cope with this disease? Is there really no cure for this condition?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Raken: Mitral valve prolapse is quite common in young women. The symptoms include occasional palpitations, chest pain, and a feeling of tightness in the chest, but it usually does not affect cardiac function, so it can be considered a relatively benign condition. Common psy...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Management, and Treatment Options
Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block: Risks and Prevention
Incomplete right bundle branch block Hello Dr. Ko: Recently, my electrocardiogram report indicated "incomplete right bundle branch block." I found very little information online and I'm not quite sure what it means, so I'm reaching out to you. Could this lead ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply to Mr. Tsai Shou-Ching: It is common for young individuals to have incomplete right bundle branch block on their electrocardiogram, and it typically does not require specific treatment. We hope you can follow up with a cardiologist for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block: Risks and Prevention
Understanding Chronic Chest Pain: Insights and Guidance for Young Adults
Persistent chest pain? Hello Dr. Ke, I have been experiencing intermittent chest pain since childhood. Initially, I didn't think much of it, assuming it was due to a fall I had when I was younger. However, it has deeply affected me to this day! I consulted a cardiologist wh...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhao Wenlong: Based on your description, there are several possible causes: (1) Mitral valve prolapse (often seen in tall and slender individuals) (2) Esophagitis (gastroesophageal reflux) (3) Neuritis or pleuritis. I recommend that you visit St. Mary's Hospital or ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Chest Pain: Insights and Guidance for Young Adults
Persistent Chest Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Chest tightness with a strong sensation of obstruction? Hello Dr. Kuo, I have been experiencing long-term discomfort that began after I underwent gynecological surgery in March 1998, during which I had anesthesia and intubation. Following the surgery, I coughed up blood for sev...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Miss Green: Based on your description, it seems that you have been troubled for quite a long time. You may be a patient who becomes anxious and has difficulty sleeping over minor issues (Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome). If your lung function indicates that you truly have br...[Read More] Persistent Chest Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Post-Procedure Heart Rhythm Issues: When to Seek Help
Cardiac concerns? Hello Doctor: I have been diagnosed with arrhythmia and was found to have two additional electrical pathways in my heart. Therefore, I underwent catheter ablation six months ago. However, I still experience some symptoms, such as sudden increases in heart rate l...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Dear Ms. Chuan, After undergoing ablation surgery for arrhythmia, it is essential to continue monitoring and treatment. I recommend that you follow up with a cardiologist (Dr. Wen, the director of our cardiology department, specializes in treating arrhythmias and ablation proce...[Read More] Understanding Post-Procedure Heart Rhythm Issues: When to Seek Help
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Risks Explained
Mitral valve prolapse What is mitral valve prolapse? What symptoms occur during the onset? What discomfort might one feel on a regular basis, and if left untreated, could it lead to heart disease?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Mitral valve prolapse refers to the phenomenon where the mitral valve protrudes during contraction of the heart. Patients may experience discomfort such as chest pain and palpitations. However, it typically does not cause significant impairment of cardiac function and can be cons...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Risks Explained
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat and Chest Pain: What You Need to Know
My symptoms? Hello, Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing episodes of rapid heartbeats that last for several beats, whereas before it would only happen occasionally. I also occasionally feel mild chest pain. I'm unsure what the issue might be. Could you please advise me...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
It is recommended that you first undergo a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine whether there is a cardiac issue before making further plans.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat and Chest Pain: What You Need to Know
Understanding Skin Itching and Organ Degeneration: A Guide for Families
Degeneration of the skin's sensory receptors? My sister has recently been experiencing a sensation on her skin that feels like insects crawling all over her body, and her breasts and genitalia are gradually shrinking and degenerating. There are only three sisters left in the...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
Due to the described symptoms, it is difficult to determine the cause of the illness. It is recommended that your sister first consult with an internist or a dermatologist for evaluation, and the physician can decide if further tests are necessary.[Read More] Understanding Skin Itching and Organ Degeneration: A Guide for Families
Understanding Breathing Issues: Causes and When to Seek Help
Respiratory issues Sometimes when I sleep, my breathing seems to become rapid, as if I'm gasping for air. When sitting in a chair or after eating too much, I feel like I have to breathe heavily. If my breathing suddenly becomes difficult, my heart rate increases, and I feel ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Miss Xiao Xiao: Abdominal bloating can reduce lung capacity and lead to difficulty in breathing. It is advisable to eat smaller meals more frequently and engage in regular exercise. Additionally, please follow up with the hospital for lung function tests and an electrocard...[Read More] Understanding Breathing Issues: Causes and When to Seek Help
Caffeine: The Hidden Link to Dizziness and Palpitations
Caffeine = Dizziness + Palpitations Dear Doc, I feel that whenever I drink coffee or tea (beverages high in caffeine), I easily experience dizziness, unsteadiness, and inexplicable palpitations for several minutes. When I don't consume them, these symptoms are less likely to...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Stimulant foods such as coffee and tea (which contain caffeine) can easily trigger increased heart rate and arrhythmias. There is a direct relationship between the two, so it is advisable to avoid them as much as possible. If there are any issues, please follow up at the cardiolo...[Read More] Caffeine: The Hidden Link to Dizziness and Palpitations
Understanding Moderate Myocardial Ischemia: Risks, Lifestyle Changes, and Treatment Options
Moderate myocardial ischemia and hypoxia? Hello Dr. Lee: I have a long history of hypertension, but it is controlled with medication. Recently, a doctor diagnosed me with moderate myocardial ischemia and valvular insufficiency. How serious is this in terms of heart disease? What ...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
If you have "moderate myocardial ischemia," you need to be very cautious. Hypertension is actually quite related to myocardial ischemia. Therefore, it is essential to control your blood pressure effectively. Some medications, in particular, have positive effects on both...[Read More] Understanding Moderate Myocardial Ischemia: Risks, Lifestyle Changes, and Treatment Options