Question 1

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 2

My dad had bypass surgery about 20 years ago, and now the doctor is suggesting he needs a CAG. They mentioned something about "30 working," and I'm not completely sure what that means. He's 60 years old now. Is it safe for him to go through this proc...

Accepted Answer

"Dear Sir, based on your father's history of bypass surgery and the current recommendation for CAG due to 30% heart function, it is important to proceed with caution. Given his age of 60 years, the procedure can still be safe. Your father may benefit from medications like Clopidogrel 75mg and Atorvastatin 40mg to manage his heart condition. It is important to follow your doctor's advice closely and monitor for any potential complications. Regular follow-up appointments are essential for his ongoing care and management."

Question 3

I've been having chest pains and I'm super worried it might be related to my heart even though all my tests like ECG, echo, TMT, and chest X-ray came back normal. The fear started after the pandemic and now I'm constantly thinking about "what if" som...

Accepted Answer

It sounds like you are experiencing a lot of anxiety and fear related to your heart health, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite multiple tests showing normal results, you are still worried about having a heart attack. It is important to address your anxiety and stress levels in order to overcome these persistent fears. One approach to consider is seeking therapy or counseling to help manage your anxiety and fears related to your heart health. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga may also be beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety. In terms of medication, you can consider taking an anxiolytic medication such as lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for acute episodes of anxiety or panic attacks. The usual dosage is 0.5-2 mg taken orally 2-3 times a day as needed. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and getting an adequate amount of sleep. These lifestyle changes can contribute to overall well-being and may help alleviate some of your anxiety symptoms. Remember, it is essential to address your mental health concerns in addition to your physical health. If you continue to experience persistent anxiety and fear despite normal test results, consider consulting with a mental health professional for further evaluation and support.

Question 4

I'm feeling really tense and I'm worried it might cause a heart attack. I feel weak and lazy, but everything else seems normal. I'm currently out of town for work. Should I be concerned?

Accepted Answer

Stress and tension can contribute to an increased risk of heart attack, especially if it is chronic and not properly managed. To help alleviate your symptoms and reduce the risk of complications, you can consider taking a medication like Propranolol (40mg) to help with anxiety and physical symptoms. Additionally, practicing stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and getting regular exercise can also be beneficial.

Question 5

I'm experiencing some heart palpitations and my pulse rate is around 90. I recently did an ECG, 2D ECO, and blood tests including the complete blood count, but everything came back normal. I'm just trying to figure out what could be causing these pal...

Accepted Answer

The normal test results indicate that there may not be a serious underlying issue causing your heart palpitations. However, there are several potential reasons for experiencing heart palpitations despite normal test results. Some common causes include anxiety, stress, caffeine intake, dehydration, anemia, thyroid disorders, or certain medications. In your case, since the tests have already been done and are normal, I would recommend trying to manage stress levels, reducing caffeine intake, staying hydrated, and ensuring a balanced diet. If palpitations persist or worsen, a medication like Metoprolol (25-50mg) can be prescribed to help regulate your heart rate.

Question 6

I'm a bit worried about my mom's condition after her angioplasty. It's been about three weeks now and her hand was pretty swollen. The swelling is getting better, but there are still blue and red patches on her skin. They seem to be fading, and the p...

Accepted Answer

The blue and red color patches on your mother's hand after angioplasty are likely due to bruising and inflammation, which can be a common side effect of the procedure. As the swelling has reduced and the patches are vanishing slowly, along with a reduction in pain, it indicates that her body is healing properly. This is a normal part of the recovery process after angioplasty. To help with the healing process, you can continue with the current medications. Additionally, you can apply a cold compress to the affected area and elevate the hand to reduce swelling. If there is persistent pain or if you notice any signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the area, then it would be advisable to consult with the treating physician for further evaluation.

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Related Questions

My dad had bypass surgery about 20 years ago, and now the doctor is suggesting he needs a CAG. They mentioned something about "30 working," and I'm not completely sure what that means. He's 60 years old now. Is it safe for him to go through this proc...

I've been having chest pains and I'm super worried it might be related to my heart even though all my tests like ECG, echo, TMT, and chest X-ray came back normal. The fear started after the pandemic and now I'm constantly thinking about "what if" som...

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