Question 1

I'm really worried about my dad. He's 50 and has been dealing with some health issues for the last ten days. He fainted last Saturday and his blood pressure dropped to 9363, with a fever of 102F. Our regular doctor gave him paracetamol, but then the same thing happened again on Sunday. We rushed him to another doctor who found moderate pericardial effusion and admitted him to the ICUU. They ended up putting in a temporary pacemaker because his pulse rate was falling below 50 bpm. It seemed to help, but then after they removed the pacemaker, his atrial fibrillation was varying quite a bit. The doctor adjusted his medication, and now the AF is still shifting between 110 and 130. They mentioned something about fluid dissolving, but I'm not sure what the next steps should be. Any advice on how we should proceed?

Accepted Answer

It sounds like your father has been through a lot with the pericardial effusion and subsequent atrial fibrillation. It's good to hear that 90% of the fluid has been dissolved. To continue managing the atrial fibrillation, the doctor may prescribe medications such as Metoprolol (25-50mg twice daily) to help control the heart rate. Additionally, blood thinners like Warfarin (2.5-5mg once daily) may be prescribed to prevent blood clots. It's important to monitor his heart rate and rhythm regularly and follow up with the doctor for further evaluation and management.

Question 2

I'm feeling really worried about some symptoms I've been experiencing. I've been having mild chest pain in both my chest and some pain in my shoulder and back when I'm at rest. My ECG showed WPW, but my echocardiogram came back normal. The doctor mentioned these symptoms aren't cardiac-related, which was a relief at first, but then my routine TMT test came back positive with a report of ST depression ischemia. I'm also concerned about my cholesterol levels, with total cholesterol at 139, HDL at 33, and LDL at 103. Given my situation and age, is there some risk I should be aware of? What should I do because I'm really worried about my health? By the way, I don't feel any pain while I'm working or walking.

Accepted Answer

Mild chest pain in both the chest while resting and shoulder and back pain, ulcer and anxiety. ECG found WPW and echo normal. Doctor said nothing to worry. Symptoms are non-cardiac but in routine test TMT test came positive, conclusion in report was ST depression ischemia. My overall cholesterol is 139, HDL 33, and LDL 103. Is there some risk as per my age? What to do? I am really worried a lot. I have no pain while working or walking. Based on your symptoms and test results, it is important to address the positive TMT test with ST depression ischemia. This could indicate a risk of heart disease, especially with your cholesterol levels. To manage this condition, you can start taking a medication like Atorvastatin (Lipitor) 20mg to help lower your LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart-related issues. Additionally, considering your anxiety and chest pain, you can take medications like Pantoprazole (Protonix) 40mg for ulcer symptoms and an anti-anxiety medication like Lorazepam (Ativan) 0.5mg to help with anxiety symptoms. It is also recommended to follow up with your doctor for further evaluation and management. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques can also help improve your overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Question 3

I'm curious about why I need to fast for 12 hours before a lipid profile test. Also, is it okay if I drink water during this fasting period?

Accepted Answer

Infrequent bowel movements and stomach pain can be uncomfortable.

_Possible causes:_

1. _Constipation_: Infrequent bowel movements can lead to constipation.
2. _Diet_: Low fiber intake, dehydration, or a diet high in processed foods can contribute to constipation.
3. _Lifestyle_: Sedentary lifestyle, stress, or irregular bowel habits can also play a role.

_Suggestions for regular bowel movements:_

1. _Increase fiber intake_: Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
2. _Stay hydrated_: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
3. _Exercise regularly_: Engage in physical activity, such as walking or yoga, to stimulate bowel movements.
4. _Establish a bowel routine_: Try to go to the bathroom at the same time each day to train your bowels.
5. _Consider a fiber supplement_: Psyllium husk or methylcellulose can help regulate bowel movements.

_For stomach pain on the right side:_

1. _Consult a doctor_: Stomach pain can have various causes, and a doctor can help determine the underlying reason.
2. _Avoid trigger foods_: Identify and avoid foods that may be causing the pain.
3. _Stay hydrated_: Drink plenty of water to help with digestion.
4. _Manage stress_: Stress can exacerbate stomach pain; try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

_Consult a doctor if:_

1. _Severe stomach pain_
2. _Blood in stool_
3. _Persistent constipation_
4. _Other concerning symptoms_

Visit Physician for evaluation and appropriate management

More Cardiology Health Queries

I'm curious about why I need to fast for 12 hours before a lipid profile test. Also, is it okay if I drink water during this fasting period?

Health Articles for you

Guide to Know Connect Between Hypertension And Blood Pressure

Treatment Option for Heart Disease

Understanding Congenital Heart Defects A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Heart Attack Symptoms and Treatments

Syncope Explained: What to Do When You Faint & When to Worry