Question 1

I'm really concerned about my recent echocardiogram results. It showed everything as normal except it mentioned mild PAH, trivial TR, Grade 1 diastolic dysfunction, and traces of pericardial effusion. My last master health check-up was normal just two months ago. I'm 41, unmarried, and I weigh 108kg, which puts me in the obese range. I've also been experiencing some issues with deep breathing and saw a pulmonologist who prescribed some medication. I'm really anxious about the mild PAH results. Is this something I should be worried about, and is it possible for mild PAH to be reversed? And what about the other findings? Are they serious? I'm planning to do a TMT soon, but this whole thing is stressing me out quite a bit. Could you please help clarify all this?

Accepted Answer

Mild PAH (Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension) is a condition where there is increased blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. While mild PAH may not cause immediate concern, it is important to monitor it regularly as it can progress over time. Treatment options for PAH include medications such as Sildenafil or Bosentan to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It is important to follow up with your Pulmonologist regularly to monitor the progression of PAH. Trivial TR (Tricuspid Regurgitation) is a common finding in echocardiograms and is often not a cause for concern, especially when it is mild. Grade 1 diastolic dysfunction refers to abnormalities in the relaxation phase of the heart's pumping cycle, which may indicate early signs of heart disease. Traces of pericardial effusion indicate the presence of fluid around the heart, which can have various causes and may need further evaluation. Since you are experiencing deep breathing problems, it is a good idea to follow through with the planned TMT (Treadmill Stress Test) to assess your heart's response to exercise. This test can provide valuable information about your heart's function and help guide further management. Overall, it is important to continue working closely with your healthcare providers, including your Pulmonologist and Cardiologist, to monitor and manage these findings. Regular follow-ups and lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss in the case of obesity, can help improve your overall health and well-being."

Question 2

I've been having some concerns about my recent health check-up. My heart rate is around 55, and after a second ECG, it dropped to 52. The doctor had me do some additional tests, and my sodium is at 137, and potassium is 5.8. I'm not experiencing any shortness of breath or fatigue while going about my daily activities, but I do feel a bit light-headed and dizzy. How serious is this situation? Also, what should I do in terms of medication or diet to lower my potassium levels? Does adding salt and lemon to water affect my potassium levels at all? I'd appreciate any guidance you can provide.

Accepted Answer

The decrease in heart rate from 55 to 52 beats per minute on ECG may not be a significant concern on its own, but the high potassium level of 5.8 mmolL (normal range is typically 3.5-5.0 mmolL) could be a cause for your light-headedness and dizziness. High potassium levels can affect the heart's rhythm and lead to symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and palpitations. To lower your potassium levels, you can make dietary changes such as avoiding high-potassium foods like bananas, oranges, potatoes, and tomatoes. Additionally, you should limit salt intake as high sodium levels can affect potassium levels. Drinking salt water with lemon may not significantly affect your potassium levels, but it's best to avoid it for now. Your doctor may prescribe you with a medication called **Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate** to help lower your potassium levels. The typical dosage is 15-60 grams daily, but your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you based on your potassium levels. It's important to follow up with your doctor for further evaluation and management of your potassium levels. Make sure to follow a low-potassium diet and take the prescribed medication as directed to help normalize your potassium levels and alleviate your symptoms.

Question 3

I've been feeling really anxious ever since I lost my job last month. The anxiety seems to be affecting my heart rate too. It was usually under 90, but in the last 20 days, I've noticed it's been higher. I've recently managed to get my resting heart rate down to under 75 by starting brisk walking and taking an arjuna tablet once a day. However, I've been experiencing some chest pain on the left side during my walks, and my heart rate shoots up to 130. I just did an ECG test because of this. Can you take a look at my ECG report and let me know what might be going on and the best way to handle it?

Accepted Answer

start doing exercises, drink plenty of water

I just got my ECG results back from a health check-up, and it's showing a Left Axis Deviation. I've never had any BP problems, and my blood pressure during the exam was 13080. What could be causing the Left Axis Deviation? Should I be worried about it?

probable cause is hypertension, u may require betablockers and calcium channel blockers..

More Cardiology Health Queries

Health Articles for you

Understanding Irregular Heartbeat Symptoms

Bloated Stomach After Angioplasty

How To Take Care After Angioplasty?

Aortic Stenosis Treatment Overview

Preventing Heart Attacks: A Guide to Protecting Your Heart