Question 1

I'm really worried about my dad's health. He's been diabetic since 2003 and had a CABG in 2008. He's got moderate LVF dysfunction and was in and out of the hospital in 2015 and early 2016 because of pulmonary edema. He's also dealing with hypothyroidism and recently his serum creatine levels increased, so he's on a renal diet and taking a bunch of meds for diabetes, insulin, heart, and thyroid. Lately, since January 2016, he's losing weight and gets short of breath really easily, like after walking just 10-15 meters. His latest blood tests showed low potassium, so the doc gave him a tonic for that. But now he's feeling weak and says he can't taste his food right sometimes. I'm at a loss herehow can we improve his health condition?

Accepted Answer

Your father's health condition is complex, but based on the symptoms described, it seems like he may be experiencing symptoms of electrolyte imbalance, which could be contributing to his weakness and altered taste sensation. In addition to the tonic for increasing potassium, I would recommend adding a potassium supplement such as Slow-K (Potassium Chloride) to help normalize his serum potassium levels. The usual dosage is 20 mEq to 40 mEq daily, but this should be adjusted based on his specific needs and blood test results. To address his shortness of breath and symptoms of heart failure, his doctor may consider adding or adjusting medications such as Lasix (Furosemide) to help reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and improve breathing. The dosage will depend on his current medication regimen and kidney function. For his thyroid condition, ensuring that he is taking his thyroid medication regularly and having regular follow-ups with his endocrinologist is important to optimize his thyroid hormone levels. Given his history of diabetes, heart issues, and kidney problems, it's crucial for his healthcare team to closely monitor his kidney function and adjust his medications as needed to prevent further complications. Overall, it's important for your father to continue following his renal diet, taking his medications as prescribed, and attending regular follow-up appointments with his healthcare providers to manage his multiple health conditions effectively.

Question 2

Is it really possible to have pulmonary artery hypertension even when the pulmonary artery looks normal and there's no turbulence? I'm just trying to wrap my head around how that can happen. Could there be underlying issues or does it indicate a different problem? I'm a bit concerned and just trying to understand why this might occur.

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible to have pulmonary artery hypertension even with normal pulmonary artery anatomy and no turbulence. In such cases, the hypertension may be due to other underlying factors such as inflammation, vasoconstriction, or other vascular abnormalities. Treatment for pulmonary artery hypertension may include medications such as Sildenafil (Revatio) or Tadalafil (Adcirca) to help relax the pulmonary arteries and improve blood flow. Dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Question 3

I'm seeing my blood pressure readings at 10766 and 10866is that normal or is it considered low? Do you think I need to do something about it?

Accepted Answer

Your blood pressure readings of 10766 and 10866 are considered normal, as they fall within the optimal range (less than 12080 mmHg); no immediate action is required, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and regular check-ups with your doctor, will help sustain optimal blood pressure levels.

More Cardiology Health Queries

I'm seeing my blood pressure readings at 10766 and 10866is that normal or is it considered low? Do you think I need to do something about it?

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