Question 1

I'm really puzzled about my mom's test results. Her echocardiogram showed an LVEF of 40-45, but a recent cardiac MRI said it's just 25. This just doesn't seem right because she's not showing any serious symptomsno shortness of breath, no swelling in her legs or stomach. She goes about her day without any issues at all. Could there be an error with the cardiac MRI?

Accepted Answer

It is possible that there could be a discrepancy between the two imaging tests. However, it is important to follow up with your cardiologist to discuss these findings and determine the best course of action. In the meantime, medications like Carvedilol (Coreg) at a dosage of 6.25mg twice daily and Lisinopril (Zestril) at a dosage of 5mg once daily can be considered to help improve heart function.

Question 2

I'm being treated for bacterial overgrowth in my intestine, and so far, it's going well. But I'm a bit worried because sometimes I get this dull ache in my upper back, shoulder, and left arm. It's mostly on the left side, though it rarely happens on the right. I also feel pretty gassy. Could this discomfort be because of gas, or do you think I should be more concerned and maybe get an ECG done? I'm 37 and female, if that helps. What do you think?

Accepted Answer

It is possible that your upper back pain, shoulder pain, and arm pain on the left side could be related to gas or bloating from the bacterial overgrowth in your intestine. Gas can sometimes cause referred pain to other areas of the body, including the back and shoulders. However, given that you are also experiencing arm pain, it is important to consider other possible causes such as musculoskeletal issues or even cardiac concerns. Since you are also feeling gassy, it is reasonable to try over-the-counter gas relief medications such as Simethicone to see if it helps alleviate your symptoms. Additionally, you can consider taking a pain reliever like Acetaminophen for the discomfort. If your symptoms persist or worsen, especially if you experience any chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. A doctor can evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and determine if further investigations such as an ECG are necessary to rule out any cardiac issues.

Question 3

I'm a bit worried after reading my 2D echo report. It mentions mild tricuspid regurgitation and mild pulmonary hypertension with PASP by TR jet measuring 38 mmHg. Does this mean I definitely have pulmonary hypertension? And should I be concerned about it getting worse over time, like becoming moderate or even severe?

Accepted Answer

Mild pulmonary hypertension is indicated by a PASP (Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure) of 36-50 mmHg. This means that there is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. To manage mild pulmonary hypertension, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and medications such as sildenafil (Revatio) or tadalafil (Adcirca) to help lower the pressure in the pulmonary arteries and improve blood flow. It is possible for pulmonary hypertension to progress to moderate or severe levels in the future, but with proper management and regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, the progression can be slowed down or even prevented. Regular monitoring and adherence to treatment plans are crucial in managing pulmonary hypertension.

I've been having a hard time breathing when I'm lying down on either side. Could this be related to my lungs or heart? I'm feeling a bit worried. Can you give me some insight into what might be going on?

it might be due to either lung or heart cause, do chest xray it can rule out lung cause

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