Question 1

I've noticed my resting heart rate has been a bit higher than usual, usually between 90 and 110. Sometimes it goes over 100, although not too often. I'm wondering if this is normal or if I should be concerned? I had an ECHO last month, and it was normal. At what point should I think about this as potentially dangerous arrhythmia?

Accepted Answer

An arrhythmia can be dangerous if it leads to symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, dizziness, or shortness of breath. The frequency of arrhythmia that could be considered dangerous varies depending on the type and underlying cause. In your case, with a resting heart rate consistently between 90-110 and occasionally above 100, it is advisable to monitor it closely. Since your ECHO was normal last month, it is reassuring that there are no structural abnormalities with your heart. However, given the increased resting heart rate, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. In the meantime, you can consider taking a beta-blocker medication like Metoprolol at a low dose of 25mg once daily to help control your heart rate.

Question 2

I'm trying to understand what's more accurate for diagnosing left ventricular hypertrophycardiac CT or echocardiography. Which one should I trust more for reliable results? I'm a bit worried and want to make sure I get the right diagnosis.

Accepted Answer

For the diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), echocardiography is generally considered to have better accuracy compared to cardiac CT. Echocardiography provides real-time images of the heart's structure and function, allowing for a more detailed assessment of LVH. In contrast, cardiac CT can also be used to diagnose LVH, but it may not provide as much detail as echocardiography. In terms of accuracy, echocardiography is typically the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing LVH due to its ability to visualize the heart in real time and assess various parameters such as wall thickness and chamber size. Therefore, if you are looking for a more accurate result in diagnosing LVH, echocardiography would be the recommended imaging test. In some cases, both imaging modalities may be used in conjunction to provide a comprehensive evaluation of LVH. However, if you are specifically looking for the most accurate result, echocardiography is often the preferred choice.

Question 3

I'm a bit concerned about my cholesterol and triglyceride levels. My triglycerides are at 343, total cholesterol is 145, HDL is 21, and LDL is 55.4. By the way, I had an angioplasty just a month ago. Could you help me understand what these numbers mean? Should I be worried or make any changes to my routine?

Accepted Answer

Your lipid profile indicates significantly elevated triglycerides at 343 mgdL, low HDL cholesterol at 21 mgdL, and relatively low LDL cholesterol at 55.4 mgdL. These values are concerning, especially given that you recently underwent angioplasty. Elevated triglycerides and low HDL levels are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of further complications. It is essential to follow a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and possibly medications to manage lipid levels. Work closely with your cardiologist to monitor and manage your lipid profile, and follow their recommendations to reduce cardiovascular risk.

refer to cardiologist

More Cardiology Health Queries

I'm trying to understand what's more accurate for diagnosing left ventricular hypertrophycardiac CT or echocardiography. Which one should I trust more for reliable results? I'm a bit worried and want to make sure I get the right diagnosis.

Health Articles for you

Heart Exercises for a Healthy Heart

Heart Healthy Diet Plans: Diet Plans For A Stronger And Healthier Heart!

Understanding Myocardial Infarction (MI)

LVAD Heart Pump Life Expectancy Explained

Causes Of Heart Attacks In Young People