Question 1

I've been dealing with a recurrent pericardial effusion and had it removed twice already. After the second removal, I was given steroids but stopped them after a month, and now the effusion is happening again. I've also been on TB medications for four months. I'm really concerned about this recurring issue. Can you suggest any permanent solutions or steps I should take next?

Accepted Answer

It sounds like you are dealing with recurrent pericardial effusion despite previous treatments. Since you have been diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) and have been taking TB medications for the past 4 months, it is important to continue with your TB treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider. In addition to TB treatment, your healthcare provider may consider prescribing colchicine to help prevent recurrent pericardial effusion. Colchicine has been shown to be effective in reducing the recurrence of pericardial effusion in patients with a history of recurrent episodes. Please consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the possibility of adding colchicine to your treatment regimen for a more permanent solution to your recurrent pericardial effusion.

Question 2

My mom, who's 75, has been having this center chest pain for 25 days now. Last week the doctor gave her met xl 12.5 and veloz d to take every morning after looking at her ECG report, but it hasn't helped with the pain. Today, after checking her 2D echo, they suggested she take Mucaine syrup and Sucrafil three times a day for a month. She's also on telmikind am 80 (half a tablet) and rosuless c 10 every night. I'm really worried since it's been more than a week without improvement. Do you have any idea what might be causing this pain?

Accepted Answer

Based on the medications your mother is currently taking and the symptoms described, the chest pain could be due to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The medications prescribed such as Veloz D, Mucaine, and Sucrafil are commonly used to treat symptoms of acid reflux. It is possible that the pain is related to acid irritation in the esophagus. To further alleviate the symptoms, you can consider adding a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as Esomeprazole (brand name: Nexium) or Pantoprazole (brand name: Protonix) to reduce stomach acid production. The usual dosage for Esomeprazole is 20-40mg once daily before a meal, and for Pantoprazole, it is 40mg once daily in the morning. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, and maintaining a healthy weight can also help in managing acid reflux symptoms. It is important to continue the current medications as prescribed and follow up with your doctor for further evaluation if the chest pain persists.

Question 3

I'm really worried about my mom who's 89 and dealing with a leaky heart valve. Every couple of months, she gets shortness of breath and ends up in the hospital. Theyve given her a diuretic for the foot swelling and fluid in her lungs, but I'm really anxious to know what her life expectancy might be like with this condition at her age. Can you shed some light on this?

Accepted Answer

An echo and ecg is advised  to the patient..

I've got my ECG results, and it mentions left axis deviation and early repolarization. I'm 21 and male, and I'm really confused about what this means for my health. Should I be worried about being medically unfit? What should I do next?

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