Question 1

Is it normal for my resting heart rate to sometimes drop to 55? I've been keeping an eye on it using my Apple Watch, and I've noticed this happens on about six days over the past month. I'm currently taking Ciplar LA 20 since July, and before that, I was on Petril Beta for two months. Also, when I exercise, my heart rate shoots up to between 150 and 180 but returns to normal pretty quickly after I stop. I had a stress echo test done last December and everything was fine, but I'm wondering if I need any further testing. What do you think?

Accepted Answer

Resting heart rate between 54 to 60 beats per minute is considered normal for adults. Since you have a history of taking Ciplar LA 20 and Petril beta, which are beta blockers, it is expected to have a lower resting heart rate. Your heart rate increasing to 150 to 180 beats per minute during exercise is also normal and shows that your heart is responding appropriately to physical activity. As long as your heart rate returns to normal after you stop exercising, and considering your previous normal stress echo test results, there is no immediate need for further testing. Just continue monitoring your heart rate and consult your doctor if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Question 2

I'm really worried about some health stuff. I recently took a test that showed mild PAH, and I'm wondering if that's something I need to be concerned about. Ever since I moved to India from Australia, my anxiety has gotten really bad. I've had a pulse of 134 a few times, especially during the lockdown and just yesterday because I was so tense. I'm 33, 4 ft 8 in, and weigh 44 kilos. I eat really healthily, avoiding processed foods and carbs. Should I be worried about these things or am I overthinking it?

Accepted Answer

Mild pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) can be a cause for concern, but its impact varies depending on the underlying cause and overall health. Elevated heart rates during periods of tension and anxiety are not uncommon and can exacerbate feelings of discomfort. Given your history of anxiety, its important to manage stress effectively and monitor your heart health.

Since you have a history of mild PAH and experience significant anxiety, it would be beneficial to discuss this with your cardiologist and possibly a mental health professional. They can help monitor your condition and provide strategies to manage anxiety, which can, in turn, help stabilize your heart rate. Techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or medication might be recommended.

Question 3

I'm feeling a bit anxious because I've had my mitral valve replaced with a mechanical one and now I need to be on Acitron, a blood thinner, for the rest of my life. Could you tell me which foods I should be steering clear of? I'm worried about how my diet might affect my condition.

Accepted Answer

As your doctor, Id advise you to avoid foods high in vitamin K, like spinach, kale, and broccoli, as they can interfere with Acitrons effectiveness. Limit alcohol, grapefruit, and cranberry products, and always maintain a consistent diet to avoid fluctuations in your INR levels.

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More Cardiology Health Queries

I'm feeling a bit anxious because I've had my mitral valve replaced with a mechanical one and now I need to be on Acitron, a blood thinner, for the rest of my life. Could you tell me which foods I should be steering clear of? I'm worried about how my diet might affect my condition.

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