Question 1

I'm really worried because after recovering from COVID in May, I've been having chest pain that comes and goes. At first, it eased up but then returned. I had a couple of ECGs; one was normal, but three months later, it showed an irregular heartbeat, although all other tests came back normal. My doctor thinks it might be costochondritis since the pain is really sharp and in the upper rib area. Last night things got intenseI woke up suddenly with really strong palpitations. A doctor I know recommended some medications including Thiospas 4 mg, Tramadol, and Dexa 4 mg for 3 days, to be tapered slowly. I've already taken steroids during my COVID treatment for about 9 days, and I'm really anxious about taking them again. Should I go ahead with this treatment? I need advice quickly.

Accepted Answer

Its understandable to be cautious after taking steroids during COVID. Given that your chest pain and irregular heartbeat are likely due to costochondritis, the suggested medications may help, but steroids like Dexa should only be taken under close medical supervision. It's important to discuss your concerns with your doctor, especially about tapering off steroids safely.

Question 2

I recently got an ECG and 2D Echo done and the results show acyanotic congenital heart disease with severe valvular PS, mild PR, mild infundibular stenosis, significant RV hypertrophy, mild TR, and a moderately restrictive PDA with LR shunt gradient of 50 mmHg. The report also mentions RV hypertrophy, RA MPA dilation, but normal LV systolic function. Can you explain what this condition means and whether surgery is the only option to treat it? What would be the estimated cost for surgery and is there any chance of managing this with just medication? If I don't get surgery, how long can I expect to live with this condition and are there risks of a heart attack?

Accepted Answer

Consult a cardiologist with detailed Echo report (both hard copy and cd) This is a congenital malformation in your heart The definitive treatment is surgery Risk of heart attack per say because of this disease doesn't increase many fold but a potential risk of heart failure is always there Consult a cardiologist as advised earlier

Question 3

I'm a bit worried because last night I had some breathing troubles and felt pain on the left side near my armpit. I went to see a doctor, and although my vitals like blood pressure and pulse were normal, he suggested an ECG, which also turned out normal. I have spondylitis, so I was wondering what tests or checkups I should consider next? Any advice would be really helpful.

Accepted Answer

Having a pain, heaviness or discomfort in your chest can be scary. It does not always mean that you are having a heart attack. There can be many other causes, including
Other heart problems, such as angina
Panic attacks
Digestive problems, such as heartburn or esophagus disorders
Sore muscles
Lung diseases, such as pneumonia, pleurisy, or pulmonary embolism
Costochondritis - an inflammation of joints in your chest
Some of these problems can be serious. Get immediate medical care if you have chest pain that does not go away, crushing pain or pressure in the chest, or chest pain along with nausea, sweating, dizziness or shortness of breath. Treatment depends on the cause of the pain.
To rule out cardiac issues. Get a ECG and 2D echocardiography done. If they are normal then get a TMT  stress echo done.. 
Meanwhile take
Tab. Flexon Mr twice a day for 5 days

I'm really worried about my mom. Her recent reports showed that her heart's LVEF is just 18. Could you suggest ways to increase it? Shes between 18 to 60 years old. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Visit Cardiologist for appropriate management

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