Question 1

I'm wondering how often I should be getting an ECG and an ECHO done. I had them both last year and everything was normal at that time. Now that I've been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which is under control, and Im also taking a 25mg beta blocker to keep my blood pressure in check, do you think I should be repeating these tests anytime soon?

Accepted Answer

For a patient with well-managed type 2 diabetes and controlled blood pressure on a Betablocker, it is generally recommended to repeat an ECG and ECHO every 1-2 years to monitor cardiac function and assess for any changes. Since your last reports were normal and your conditions are well managed, you can discuss with your healthcare provider about scheduling these tests every 1-2 years to ensure everything remains stable.

Question 2

I'm having this weird throbbing pain in my chest that feels like getting punched, but it only lasts a few seconds and then disappears. It pops up unexpectedly and can be on the left, right, or center of my chestnot in one specific spot. It doesn't happen when I'm exercising, but when it hits, it's in this tiny area that I could touch with a finger. I've had an ECG and three 2D echo tests, and all the results look fine according to the doctors. I'm really confused about what's causing this. Any idea on what might be going on?

Accepted Answer

It sounds like you may be experiencing episodes of chest pain known as angina. Angina is often described as a squeezing, pressure, heaviness, tightness, or pain in your chest. It can be caused by reduced blood flow to your heart muscle, which is usually due to coronary artery disease. Since your ECG and 2D echoes have come back normal, it is good news that there is no immediate concern for heart-related issues. However, it is still important to investigate further to determine the cause of your chest pain. I recommend discussing with your doctor about the possibility of undergoing a stress test to evaluate your heart's function under stress. Additionally, you may benefit from a CT coronary angiography to assess the blood flow in your coronary arteries. In the meantime, to help manage your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications such as nitroglycerin to relieve chest pain. It is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. Remember to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management of your chest pain.

Question 3

I'm really worried about my dad. He had an angioplasty 5 days ago and now he's got a fever, like 101F. His face and neck feel warm, but not his arms and legs. Plus, he's got a cough with white phlegm. I've been giving him paracetamol and he's taking lizolid and ceftum twice a day, like the doctor said. Is this something normal after such a procedure, or should I be concerned?

Accepted Answer

It is not uncommon to have a fever after a surgical procedure like angioplasty, but it is important to monitor it closely. The symptoms of fever and cough with white phlegm could indicate an infection. The medications you have mentioned are appropriate for such symptoms. Continue giving him paracetamol for fever. Additionally, ensure he completes the full course of antibiotics - lizolid and ceftum - as prescribed. Monitor his temperature regularly and if the fever persists or if he develops any new symptoms, please consult with his healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

ecg,cardiac markers and x-ray is advised to the patient

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