Question 1

I'm really worried about my dad. About a month ago, he had 2 stents put in, and since then, it's been tough for him. He can't eat much, has a dry cough, and feels weak all the time. Plus, whenever he takes pantoprazole before breakfast, he gets a headache. What could be going on? Is there anything we should be doing differently?

Accepted Answer

It sounds like your father may be experiencing side effects from the medication he is taking. The dry cough and weakness could be related to the stents or the medications he is on. The headache after taking pantoprazole could be a side effect of the medication. I would recommend discussing these symptoms with his doctor. In the meantime, he can try taking pantoprazole after breakfast to see if that helps with the headache. Additionally, he can try taking medications like Clopidogrel (Plavix) and Aspirin to prevent blood clots after stent placement.

Question 2

Is it normal to feel like my heart is pounding really hard when I'm exercising? It feels like my heart's just doing a crazy workout on its own, almost like I can hold it in my hand. When I checked, my heart rate was between 130-140 during a heavy workout. I'm 20 and I do have high cholesterol. I had an ECG and echo done back in May, and everything seemed okay. But when I'm resting, my heart rate drops to about 50 bpm and it doesn't feel heavy at all. It's only happening when I'm working out. Should I be worried and stop doing these intense exercises?

Accepted Answer

It is not uncommon to feel a heavy heartbeat during intense exercise, especially when your heart rate is elevated. Given your age and previous normal cardiac evaluations, it is less likely to be concerning. However, if you continue to experience discomfort or if the symptoms worsen, it may be advisable to modify your exercise routine. To help manage your symptoms, you can consider taking a beta-blocker medication like Metoprolol at a low dose before exercise to help control your heart rate and reduce the sensation of a heavy heartbeat. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication. Additionally, focusing on aerobic exercises within your target heart rate zone and gradually increasing intensity may also help in reducing the sensation of a heavy heartbeat during exercise.

Question 3

I've been feeling some chest discomfort lately and it's got me a bit worried. Back in 2013, I had an angiography after a positive TMT test, but everything was perfectly clear then. Now, my TMT test has come back positive again. I'm wondering what steps I should take next. Do you think I might need another angiography, or is there another approach I should consider?

Accepted Answer

If you are experiencing chest discomfort and your TMT test has come back positive again, it is advisable to consult your doctor for further evaluation. Another angiography may be recommended to assess the current status of your coronary arteries and determine the appropriate treatment plan. In the meantime, you can take medications like Aspirin 75mg once daily and Atorvastatin 20mg once daily to help manage your symptoms.

echo advised once in 6-12 months..

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