Question 1

I'm a little concerned about my cholesterol levels. My total cholesterol is at 234, triglycerides are 169, HDL cholesterol is 46.2, and non-HDL cholesterol is 193. I'm really wondering how risky these numbers are. Should I be thinking about taking medication, or could some lifestyle changes make a big difference?

Accepted Answer

Total cholesterol of 234 mgdL is slightly above the desirable level of less than 200 mgdL. Triglycerides of 169 mgdL are also slightly elevated, while HDL cholesterol of 46.2 mgdL is below the optimal level of 60 mgdL. Non-HDL cholesterol of 193 mgdL is also slightly elevated. These values indicate a moderate risk for cardiovascular disease. In this case, lifestyle changes are recommended as the first step to improve your cholesterol levels. This includes following a healthy diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking. If lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient to bring your cholesterol levels to the desired range, medication may be considered. Statin medications such as Atorvastatin (brand name Lipitor) or Rosuvastatin (brand name Crestor) may be prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels. The dosage and specific medication will depend on your individual health profile and risk factors. Regular monitoring of your cholesterol levels and working closely with your healthcare provider will help determine the most appropriate course of action for managing your cholesterol levels.

Question 2

I had a heart attack a couple of months ago and I'm 47. They put in a stent and I've been doing okay. I walk about 5km every morning without any issues. Is it safe for me to start using a treadmill or go for some cycling now? Also, what should my pul...

Accepted Answer

It's great that you are staying active after your heart attack. With a stent in place and your regular walking routine, you can gradually incorporate treadmill and cycling into your exercise regimen. When using the treadmill, aim to keep your heart rate within a safe range. For your age, a target heart rate during exercise is typically around 50-85% of your maximum heart rate. To calculate this, subtract your age from 220. So, for you, (220-47) = 173 beats per minute (bpm) is your estimated maximum heart rate. During treadmill exercise, aim to keep your heart rate between 85-147 bpm to ensure you are exercising safely. As for cycling, it is also a great cardiovascular exercise. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity as tolerated. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly. Remember to listen to your body, and if you experience any chest pain, dizziness, or unusual symptoms, stop exercising and seek medical attention.

Question 3

I've been told by my doctor that I need a CT angiography, but because of my sinus tachycardia, he mentioned it might be hard to do. I'm already taking beta-blockers and sedatives, but my heart rate is still not under control at the doctor's office. I...

Accepted Answer

To manage your heart rate for CT angiography despite sinus tachycardia, you can consider using a calcium channel blocker such as Diltiazem. The recommended dosage for Diltiazem in this case would be 120-360 mg per day. This medication can help in controlling your heart rate and making it feasible to undergo the CT angiography procedure. Additionally, you may also benefit from the use of a medication like Atenolol, a beta blocker, at a dosage of 25-100 mg per day to further help in controlling your heart rate during the procedure. It is important to follow your doctor's guidance and dosage instructions carefully.

Question 4

I'm feeling really bloated and my stomach is causing me some breathing troubles. On top of that, I'm suddenly experiencing a lot of anxiety. Could this be linked to a heart problem? I'm really concerned and would love some insight.

Accepted Answer

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Question 5

I'm really concerned because my heart rate is staying really high around 180 bpm. Even after taking medicine, it only went down to 160 bpm. Is this something I should be worried about? What can I do to help it get back to normal?

Accepted Answer

Heart rate of 180 bpm is considered very high and can be a sign of tachycardia. It's good that the medicine helped reduce it to 160 bpm, but it's still elevated. You should seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, you can take Metoprolol 25mg to help lower your heart rate. Make sure to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid any stimulants like caffeine.

Question 6

I think I might have angina because I'm experiencing chest pains. I also have high blood pressure and was born with a slight blockage. I'm just 18 and I'm not sure how to talk to my parents about this. Honestly, I'm scared to go to a hospital. If I m...

Accepted Answer

It sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms of angina, especially given your history of high blood pressure and a slight blockage. Lowering your blood pressure may help alleviate some symptoms, but it is important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, you can take aspirin to help with chest pain. Please take one low-dose aspirin (81mg) and chew it to help reduce the risk of a heart attack. Make sure to inform your parents about your symptoms and seek medical help as soon as possible.

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Related Questions

I had a heart attack a couple of months ago and I'm 47. They put in a stent and I've been doing okay. I walk about 5km every morning without any issues. Is it safe for me to start using a treadmill or go for some cycling now? Also, what should my pul...

I've been told by my doctor that I need a CT angiography, but because of my sinus tachycardia, he mentioned it might be hard to do. I'm already taking beta-blockers and sedatives, but my heart rate is still not under control at the doctor's office. I...

I'm feeling really bloated and my stomach is causing me some breathing troubles. On top of that, I'm suddenly experiencing a lot of anxiety. Could this be linked to a heart problem? I'm really concerned and would love some insight.

I'm really concerned because my heart rate is staying really high around 180 bpm. Even after taking medicine, it only went down to 160 bpm. Is this something I should be worried about? What can I do to help it get back to normal?

I think I might have angina because I'm experiencing chest pains. I also have high blood pressure and was born with a slight blockage. I'm just 18 and I'm not sure how to talk to my parents about this. Honestly, I'm scared to go to a hospital. If I m...

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