Question 1

Should I consider getting a CT angiogram even though my ECG, ECHO, TMT, and chest X-ray have all come back normal? I'm experiencing some chest tightness and occasional shortness of breath, though its just for a moment. My cholesterol levels are a bit high, with LDL at 154 and HDL at 36. I weigh 108 kg, and my blood pressure is at 13075. My dad had bypass surgery back in 2018, so I'm wondering if having a CT angiogram is something I should look into given my symptoms and family history.

Accepted Answer

Considering your symptoms of chest tightness, shortness of breath, high LDL cholesterol levels, and family history of bypass surgery in your father, it may be prudent to further investigate the possibility of coronary artery disease. A CT ANGIOGRAM can provide detailed imaging of the blood vessels in your heart and help assess for any blockages or narrowing that may not be detected by the tests you have already undergone. In your case, a CT ANGIOGRAM may be recommended to rule out any significant coronary artery disease.

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

What is a heart cough?

Accepted Answer

Heavy breathing accompanied by spells of wet cough with frothy sputum that may be tinged with blood is called as "Cardiac cough or Heart cough". It is a sign of congestive heart failure. Additional symptoms such as shortness of breath on exertion or rest, leg swelling, waking up from sleep in the middle of night gasping and coughing differentiate heart cough from cough due to lung conditions.

I've been noticing for the past 4 years that my heart occasionally skips a beat or flutters, but it's been happening much more frequently lately. It gets me really anxious each time, even though I dont have any other symptoms apart from the anxiety. Can you guide me on what might be going on?

Visit your Physician for appropriate management

More Cardiology Health Queries

What is a heart cough?

Health Articles for you

Chest Trauma Explained: A Vital Guide to Recognition and First Response

How To Reduce Resting Heart Rate?

Sexual Life After Angioplasty

Heart Diseases Warning Signs

Understanding All About Structural Heart Disease