Question 1

I'm a bit worried about my mom's condition after her angioplasty. It's been about three weeks now and her hand was pretty swollen. The swelling is getting better, but there are still blue and red patches on her skin. They seem to be fading, and the pain isn't as bad as before, but I'm just really curious about what's causing these color changes. Does this indicate something serious, or is it a normal part of the healing process? Her current medications include Brilinta, Ecosprin, and insulin. I've attached a photo to show you what it looks like. Could you help me understand what's happening?

Accepted Answer

The blue and red color patches on your mother's hand after angioplasty are likely due to bruising and inflammation, which can be a common side effect of the procedure. As the swelling has reduced and the patches are vanishing slowly, along with a reduction in pain, it indicates that her body is healing properly. This is a normal part of the recovery process after angioplasty. To help with the healing process, you can continue with the current medications. Additionally, you can apply a cold compress to the affected area and elevate the hand to reduce swelling. If there is persistent pain or if you notice any signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the area, then it would be advisable to consult with the treating physician for further evaluation.

Question 2

I'm 26 and a few months back, I had a fever that went away in a week. Then, out of nowhere, my heart rate shot up to 144 bpm, and I felt like there was an air bubble in my chest. I got an ECG done, which showed minor ST and T wave abnormalities, and I'm attaching it here. Now and then, I still get these episodes. While my 2D echo and blood pressure are normal, I've been dealing with random chest pains that last just a secondsometimes on the right and then on the left. My stomach feels upset too, and I get really gassy during these times. I'm confused about what might be causing these ECG changes. Curiously, I never feel chest pain when jogging or exercising, only when I'm at rest. Different doctors have told me different things; some say it's normal, and others think it might be gas. What's really going on here? Should I be worried about these ECG changes?

Accepted Answer

The symptoms you are experiencing, along with the ECG changes showing minor ST and T wave abnormality, could be indicative of a condition called Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs). PVCs are extra heartbeats that begin in one of your heart's two lower pumping chambers (ventricles). They may feel like a fluttering or a flip-flop in your chest. The sensation can be triggered by certain activities, emotions, or medications. To help manage your symptoms and reduce the occurrence of PVCs, you can try taking over-the-counter medication such as **Propranolol (Inderal)** at a dosage of 10-30 mg three to four times a day. This medication can help regulate your heart rate and reduce the frequency of PVCs. Additionally, you can try to reduce stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or yoga. It is important to follow up with a cardiologist for further evaluation and management. They may recommend additional tests such as a Holter monitor or an event monitor to capture your heart's activity over an extended period. This will help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and guide appropriate treatment. In the meantime, try to avoid triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, which can exacerbate PVCs. Stay hydrated, maintain a healthy diet, and get regular exercise to support your heart health. If you experience severe chest pain, dizziness, or fainting spells, seek immediate medical attention.

Question 3

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.

I've just found out that I have high cholesterol levels, and my uric acid is above normal too. I'm really worried and not sure what to do. Can you help me understand what kinds of food I should be avoiding to keep these in check?

avoid oily , spicy foods.

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