Question 1

I've just turned 39 and I'm a bit concerned about some results from a pre-employment medical test I took. My blood pressure came out as 110 over 70, which I think is okay but I'm not sure. My total cholesterol is at 225, should I be worried about that? Also, the ECG report mentioned sinus bradycardia and I don't really know what that means. Is this something I should be concerned about?

Accepted Answer

You have a blood pressure of 11070, total cholesterol of 225, and sinus bradycardia on your ECG report. For your blood pressure of 11070, it falls within the normal range. A total cholesterol level of 225 is slightly above the recommended level of less than 200. You may consider lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and possibly medication like atorvastatin to lower your cholesterol levels. Sinus bradycardia is a condition where your heart rate is slower than normal. If you are not experiencing any symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or fainting, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if you have symptoms, you may need further evaluation by a cardiologist. Overall, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for a more personalized assessment and management plan.

Question 2

I'm really worried about my dad's health. Last Friday, he had a major heart failure and after carrying out an angiogram, the doctor found out that there are three blockages in his heart. They also mentioned that his ejection fraction or EF is at 20 which is quite low, and because of that, they can't perform angioplasty or bypass surgery. I'm really unsure about what steps we can take to improve his condition. Could you guide me on how to help him get better or what options we might have?

Accepted Answer

With a low ejection fraction (EF) of 20% and multiple blockages in the heart, the main goal of treatment would be to improve his heart function and manage his symptoms. Medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and diuretics can help improve heart function and reduce the workload on the heart. In addition, medications like statins can help manage cholesterol levels and prevent further blockages. It's important for your father to follow a healthy lifestyle, including a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Regular monitoring by his healthcare team is crucial to adjust his treatment as needed.

Question 3

Hey doc, I've been dealing with this sharp chest pain whenever I sneeze or have a really hard cough, and sometimes it happens if I quickly flex my chest muscles during a workout. It's been almost a year now and I notice a slight pain if I press hard on the sore spot. I'm starting to get a bit worried about what's going on. Any ideas?

Accepted Answer

You may be experiencing costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. To help alleviate the pain, you can take over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) as directed on the package. Additionally, applying a warm compress to the area may provide some relief. Make sure to rest and avoid activities that worsen the pain. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Avoid alcohol

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