Question 1

I had an AVR with a mechanical valve about 9 years ago and I'm wondering about my life expectancy now. I make sure to go for my yearly checkups, and my last echo showed an EF of 60, LVDD of 50mm, LA 36mm, with PW and IVS at 1.1cm. My INR level is 2.87. Could you give me some insights on these numbers and what they mean for my future?

Accepted Answer

With a mechanical valve replacement, it is important to maintain a stable INR to prevent complications such as thrombosis or bleeding. Your current INR of 2.87 is slightly higher than the recommended range for mechanical valves, which is usually between 2.0 to 3.0. It is good that you are going for yearly checkups to monitor your condition. To help manage your INR within the target range, you can consider using Warfarin (Coumadin) at a dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and adjustments to your medication may be necessary to keep your INR within the desired range and reduce the risk of complications. As for life expectancy after AVR with a mechanical valve, it can vary depending on various factors including overall health, adherence to medication, lifestyle factors, and regular follow-up care. It is essential to continue with your yearly checkups and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for optimal management of your condition.

Question 2

I'm really worried about my mom. She had CABG surgery about four months ago, and ever since, she's been dealing with a dry cough. I recently had her get an X-ray, and luckily, it showed everything's normal. But I'm still concerned. Is this something ...

Accepted Answer

Since your mother's X-ray showed everything is normal, it is less likely to be a serious issue. To help alleviate the dry cough, you can give her a cough suppressant like Delsym (dextromethorphan) 30mg every 6 hours as needed. Additionally, she can try using a humidifier at home to keep the air moist. If the dry cough persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult with her cardiologist for further evaluation and management.

Question 3

I'm really concerned about my heart health right now. My ejection factor is 38, and my doctor recommends I get an angiogram. But to be honest, I'm pretty scared about going through that procedure. Is there any other way to help improve my heart eject...

Thats unusual,visit General Physician for appropriate approach.and maintain balanced diet and healthy lifestyle

Last updated on 22 Jan 2025

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Accepted Answer

Thats unusual,visit General Physician for appropriate approach.and maintain balanced diet and healthy lifestyle

Question 4

I'm wondering if it's possible for an ECG to come out normal but still have some unusual results in an echo test? Also, if both test results are normal, what could be the reason for having a high pulse rate? It's been on my mind lately.

Accepted Answer

yes it is possible and for tachycardia there are many other reasons need to undergo further evaluation ,visit cardiologist for the same

Question 5

I've done an ECG, echo, and TMT test recently, and while everything seems normal, I'm still feeling this burning or electric shock sensation in my left arm, neck, shoulder, and back. Sometimes it feels like my chest is being pinched, and it seems lik...

Accepted Answer

The tests you mentioned (ECG, echo, TMT) are typically valid for a short period of time, usually a few days to weeks. Since your symptoms are persisting despite normal test results, it's important to consider other possibilities. It sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety or acid reflux, which can sometimes mimic heart-related issues. To help with the burning sensation in your left arm, neck, shoulder, and back, as well as the feeling of something stuck in your throat, you can try taking antacids like **Tums** (dosage: 2 tablets as needed) for relief. For the chest discomfort and palpitations, you can take **Atenolol** (dosage: 25-50mg once a day) to help with the palpitations and anxiety symptoms. However, it's important to consult with a cardiologist or a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and management of your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek further medical advice for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.

Question 6

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 nor...

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.

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I'm really worried about my mom. She had CABG surgery about four months ago, and ever since, she's been dealing with a dry cough. I recently had her get an X-ray, and luckily, it showed everything's normal. But I'm still concerned. Is this something ...

I'm really concerned about my heart health right now. My ejection factor is 38, and my doctor recommends I get an angiogram. But to be honest, I'm pretty scared about going through that procedure. Is there any other way to help improve my heart eject...

I'm wondering if it's possible for an ECG to come out normal but still have some unusual results in an echo test? Also, if both test results are normal, what could be the reason for having a high pulse rate? It's been on my mind lately.

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