Question 1

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 2

My mom had cardiac aortic valve replacement surgery in 2013 when she was 47. Her PT has been stable around 1.6, usually staying between 1.2 and 2.0. But recently, a different cardiologist said her PT isn't good and should be in the 2-3 range. I'm confused because her levels have been consistent for years is this something we should be worried about? What should we do next?

Accepted Answer

Your cardiologist is right. It depends on which type of valve ur mom has. U can continuously monitor the PT INR through remote monitoring.

Question 3

I'm really worried after finding out from my CT coronary angiography that I have soft plaque in the proximal LAD causing moderate narrowing, and there's bridging in the mid LAD. Thankfully, my heart scan and 2D echo are normal. But now I'm kind of stressed about what precautions I should be taking and what medicines might help. I just feel unsure about the next steps and would love some guidance. What should I do to manage this situation?

Accepted Answer

Its understandable to feel concerned, but with your CT angiography showing mild narrowing (60%) and normal 2D echo, it suggests your heart function is still intact. For now, focus on lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and medications like aspirin or statins as prescribed by your doctor to prevent further plaque buildup. Stay in close contact with your cardiologist for regular check-ups and guidance.

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