Question 1

I'm a 54-year-old guy and I've been told I need a heart pacemaker. So, before I go for it, I want to know all the details. Like, how does this thing actually work? What kind of care do I need after getting one? Is it going to be comfortable to live with? And most importantly, should I be worried about any side effects from having a pacemaker?

Accepted Answer

A pacemaker is a small device that's placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms. It uses electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. You may need a pacemaker if your heart beats too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. After getting a pacemaker, you should avoid vigorous activities that could damage the device. It's important to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to ensure the pacemaker is working properly. Most people find living with a pacemaker to be comfortable and are able to resume normal activities. However, you should avoid certain activities that can interfere with the pacemaker, such as using certain medical devices or undergoing certain medical procedures. Common side effects of a pacemaker include infection at the site of implantation, bleeding, bruising, or swelling. In rare cases, there may be complications such as a collapsed lung or a punctured blood vessel during the implantation procedure. It's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Question 2

I've been smoking for the past four years and drink daily. Seven months ago, I had a stress echo, and it came back normal, even though my lipid levels, Lp(a), and triglycerides were high. Recently, I've been experiencing dizziness that comes and goes, heart palpitations, ringing in my ears, feeling my heartbeat in my ears, the sensation of my heart skipping a beat, and burping. Could these symptoms be related to a heart issue? I'm worried because of my lifestyle habits and these recurring symptoms.

Accepted Answer

"Based on your symptoms and risk factors such as smoking and daily drinking, it is important to further evaluate your heart health. The dizziness, heart palpitations, ringing in ears, feeling of skipping a beat, and burping could be related to your heart. I recommend you to consult a doctor for further evaluation and consider starting on a medication like Atorvastatin (10mg) for high lipid levels and Fenofibrate (145mg) for high TG levels to manage your cardiovascular risk factors."

Question 3

I'm feeling really lightheaded and having some chest discomfort. A couple of years ago, I did some tests like ECG, ECHO, and TMT, and everything was normal except there was a comment about systolic dysfunction in the echo. My blood pressure was also fine at that time. But now, when I checked my blood pressure because of the lightheadedness, it was 10661. What could be causing these symptoms, and should I be worried about the systolic dysfunction part from before?

Accepted Answer

Feeling lightheaded and experiencing chest discomfort, especially with a history of systolic dysfunction noted in your echocardiogram, warrants immediate attention. Although your previous tests were normal, new or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. Your current blood pressure of 10661 mmHg is on the lower side, which may contribute to your lightheadedness. Given your symptoms and history, it is essential to seek medical evaluation promptly to rule out any potential cardiac issues or other causes. Please visit an emergency room or contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible for a thorough assessment and appropriate management.

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