This is a digest of messages posted to: Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACC.Cardio appt. tommorrowCardio appt. tommorrowMessage #2: Cardio appt. tommorrow Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 14, 2009.I hope everything goes well. Take care.Cardio appt. tommorrowMessage #3: Cardio appt. tommorrow Posted by: Byroney_WebMD_Staff Date: Sep 14, 2009.Dear JackieChan84, How did your cardiologist appointment today go? If you have a chance, give us an update and let us know. Best wishes, Byroneycleaning your arteriescleaning your arteriesMessage #4: cleaning your arteries Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 14, 2009.At the current time, high dose statin therapy is your best bet to reduce significant progression of coronary artery disease in addition to managing blood pressure and stopping smoking. Unfortunately, there are no treatments in common practice that will "clean out" your arteries - that would be awesome, but we're just not there yet. There are some investigational treatments (see Cardiostar's post) but they're not quite ready for prime time.heart failure and car wrecksheart failure and car wrecksMessage #2: heart failure and car wrecks Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 14, 2009.I couldn't really speculate about the role of the car accident without being involved in your care at that
time - I'm sorry. I hope all goes well with your transplant. Take care.Left sided chest and forearm painLeft sided chest and forearm painMessage #2: Left sided chest and forearm pain Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 14, 2009.Two negative stress tests and a calcium score of zero suggests no significant coronary artery disease - great news! Spasm is always a possibility, but would be expected to be associated with some ECG changes (not always, but it can) when symptoms are occurring. Maybe it's not cardiac after all!Left sided chest and forearm painMessage #3: Left sided chest and forearm pain Posted by: JGD84 Date: Sep 14, 2009.Thanks Dr. Beckerman! I'm thankful that it sounds like non-cardiac to you as well! It so
unds like my primary MD was probably right all along... he said it was Costrochondritis that was aggravated when I sit at my desk all day typing. I really appreciate you taking your time to answer my question. It's reassuring to hear your comment. I'm thankful for this forum and your time!!!Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCminoxidilInitial Message Posted by: keithrag Date: Sep 14, 2009.What is your opinion of the use of minoxidil to treat high blood pressure? My bp is usually 154/87 88 on the medication that was prescribed about a month ago. On a visit to my MD on Friday the pressure was 178/97 88. I feel that this was because I was upset about work. I have noticed that my bp goes up when I am under stress or worry about something. On Friday my MD took me off my bp meds and prescribed minoxidil 2
.5 md 2 x day, Lasix 40mg. I stayed on Metoprolol 2 x day, Lisinopril 40mg 1x day and verapamil 360md 1 x day. After taken the new meds (minoxidil, lasix) with the meds that he did not change both my bp and pulse rate has gone up (average 168/90 102). The pulse rate is around 100 when I am not doing anything. Before I started the new meds the pulse rate was usually between 78 to 88. Also I have been a little dizzy since starting the new mwds. Could the minoxidil or lasix be the problem?Pregnant w/ heart issuesInitial Message Posted by: ncharleymom Date: Sep 14, 2009.Hi I am a 36 year old woman who has a stint in the left main artery of my heart. I have had regular stress tests (last one was April). I found out I was pregnant in May and am now 24 weeks along. My cardiologist states that I "should be fine" and that the only concern is the end of the
pregnancy and during labor. They want to make sure I have good pain management. Could you please tell me what exactly the heart goes through at the end of pregnancy that would cause issues. I know there is more blood the heart is pumping getting ready for delivery but my heart functions at 65%. What are steps that you would recommend that will be best for myself and the baby? ThanksPregnant w/ heart issuesPregnant w/ heart issuesMessage #1: Pregnant w/ heart issues Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 14, 2009.Hi: Pregnancy (first, second, or more) itself can place a tremendous strain on the heart and circulatory system, which may/can cause, or aggravate/worsen/exacerbate various symptoms/conditions, even in healthy individuals. By the time the baby is due, blood volume has increased by up to 50%,
meaning the heart must beat faster and pump harder to move all that blood. Post-pregnancy, symptoms/problems may/can continue or entirely new ones may/can develop/arise, sometimes slowly, gradually or suddenly. Safe delivery - Child/Mother As reported, many pregnancies can and do conclude sucessfully when medical professionals anticipate potential complications and monitor for early signs of any difficulty. Providing care for the woman with a cardiac condition, may/can present certain challenges and therefore the patient is best cared for by a multi-disciplinary team whose members bring specialized knowledge and skill to bear on the needs that the patient and the precious fragile fetus present. Most important, coronary artery disease (CAD) is a lifelong unpredictable (can exhibit periods of stabilization, acceleration, and even some regression) condition, requiring a continuum of top notch care, and good doctor-patient/patie
nt-doctor communication and understanding at ALL times. May the child be born healthy, and may both of you live long and prosper. Take care, CardioStar☆ WebMD community member (8/99) - - ☑Be well-informed Your Total Health PREGNANCY & THE HEART http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/pregnancy-heart.html _ . _ Pregnancy H/P Rate/BP changes The volume of blood circulating in the human body increases during pregnancy. This is especially significant from 6 weeks until the middle of the pregnancy. After this, the increase is much more gradual. If you are carrying more than one baby, or if it is not your first pregnancy, the increase in your blood volume will be even greater. In the third trimester (last 3 months) of your pregnancy, your
heart/pulse (H/P) rate will increase by up to 10 to 20 beats per minute (BPM). Again, if you are carrying more than one child or if you have been pregnant before, your pulse is likely to be even faster. There is an increased demand on the mother for oxygen during labor, and the blood pressure (BP) and HP rate will rise. The BP and HR usually return to the levels they were at before labor approximately 1 hour after giving birth. Some individuals (as determined on a highly-individualized case-by-case basis) with cardiovascular conditions may be advised to have a cesarean section (C-section) as is it easier to control the H/P rate and BP with this specific type of delivery. _ . _ Living with Coronary Artery Disease A chronic disease with no cure. When you have coronary artery disease, it is important to take.... This is especially true if you have had an interventional procedure or surgery to improve blood fl
ow to the heart..../It is up to you to take steps.... Recognize the symptoms. Reduce your risk factors. Take your medications. See your doctor for regular check-ups.... http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/living-with-heart-disease - - OptumHealth Making the Most of Your Doctor Visits 14 Tips to Make Your Doctor Visits a Success http://www.myoptumhealth.com/portal/Health+Hubs/item/Making+the+Most+of+Your+Doctor+Visits HealingWell You and Your Doctor: It Takes Two to Tango Your medical care is a two way street.... http://www.healingwell.com/library/health/article.asp?author=salvucci&id=5
Quote "Be a questioning patient. Talk to your doctor and ask questions.
... read more »

This is a digest of messages posted to: Heart Health.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCCardio appt. yesterdayInitial Message Posted by: JACKIECHAN84 Date: Sep 15, 2009.Hi everyone. I had my appointment yesterday and it went better than expected. I will not need surgery to replace my heart valve, considering I only have mild regurgitation of the tricuspid valve. As far as my right atrium being enlarged, the dr feels that to be insignificant and nothing to worry about right now. He is concerned with my svt though, considerring I have episodes on a daily basis, especially while exerting myself. He ran blood tests to check my thyroid levels, just to rule that out as a cause of my svt. I will get the results on the 22nd. He also ordered a stress test, so he
can moniter my heart when Im actually in a episode. I will have that done on the 28th and then I will follow up with him on oct. 16. He also uped my dose of metrpolol from 25mg. to 50mg. a day. I can now do light exercise! He is considerring doing a catheter ablation considering I have been in the er numerous times for svt. I wont find out for sure until oct. 16. I feel so relieved to know that the most that will have to be done is just this minimally invasive procedure! I WILL KEEP EVERYONE POSTED! Cardio appt. yesterdayCardio appt. yesterdayMessage #1: Cardio appt. yesterday Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 15, 2009.Thanks for the update. Take extra-good care, C☆ - It's your future......be there. discoloring of skindiscoloring of skinMessage #2: discoloring of skin Posted by: pmtalle Date: Sep 15, 2009.I have had ultrasounds on my legs for arteries and veins for circulation,but that is all I have stomach and intestinal problems and wasn't sure what is going on this is new to me. since the post they stopped turning blue. I feel sick constantly ruled out to be my stomach of course had alot of those problems for last 6 years. had a blockage in intestants recently but doctor told me that wasnt the reason my legs were turning blue and also said wasnt the reason for the weakness lightheadedness, I am really exhausted all the time recently on top of all this. my dad has atherialschlorosis in his legs and i talked to him about what was going
on and he was concerned for my heart more then anything cause of family history of heart diseases and clotting are really bad in familydiscoloring of skinMessage #3: discoloring of skin Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 15, 2009.Normal ultrasounds of your arteries and veins would suggest that circulation probably isn't the problem.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCDizzyInitial Message Posted by: fdeitrick Date: Sep 15, 2009.I am a 53 year old female around 125lbs with a strong family history of heart problems. Maternal grandmother, aunt and mother have all passed away and my dad had to have a quad bypass and later that night had to have a dual pacemaker. Now, I'm concerned about my own health. I do s
ee a cardiologist every 3 months to monitor my bp which last time has gotten better 138/82 but my cholestrol isn't the greatest. Cholestrol is 234, the bad LDL is 155 plus I have mitral value prolapse. The problem is, I was given Crestor and also Atenolol to take once a day however; I felt horrible. I was so sluggish and wasn't myself so I took myself off them after being on it for about 3 months. I feel better but now I'm experiencing light dizziness for about a couple of weeks now and whenever this happens, I can feel my heart either skipping beats or it beats so fast that I have to stop what I'm doing. Can the dizziness be caused by my heart and if so do you know what the problem can be. Am I in danger of having the same issues as my parents? Getting a little concerned.DizzyDizzyMessage #1: Dizzy Posted by: Cardi
ostarUSA1 Date: Sep 15, 2009.Hi: "Am I in danger of having the same issues as my parents?" Hopefully not, though this can not be properly addressed via the Internet. "I have mitral valve prolapse" Mitral valve prolapse (MVP), the most common (and typically benign) heart valve abnormality, may/can cause various symptoms or no symptoms at all. "Was given Crestor and also Atenolol to take once a day however......" "So I took myself off them after......" Does your doctor(s) know about this? "Can the dizziness be caused by my heart" Dizziness or lightheadedness has various causes, and the heart can affect the brain (or vice versa) in various ways. Additionally, of the various types/kinds of heart conditions, symptoms may/can be acute (occurring suddenly), be chronic (occurring over a long period of time), come and go (be transient, fleeting or episodic) or even be sil
ent. Most important, communicate/interact well with your doctor(s). Best of luck down the road of life. Take care, CardioStar☆ WebMD community member (8/99) - - ☑Be well-informed Your Total Health - iVillage/NBC Mitral Valve Prolapse [Patient education guide] http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/mitral-valve-prolapse.html MVP Syndrome/Dysautonomia! http://www.mitralvalveprolapse.com MVP Symptoms & Testing http://www.mvprolapse.com/symptoms_testing.html MVP - Research & Support Forums http://www.mvpsupport.com - ☞ LEARN ABOUT the
Heart WebMD The Heart: (Human Anatomy) Pictures, Definition, Location in the Body and Heart Problems http://www.webmd.com/heart/picture-of-the-heart WebMD Health/The Cleveland Clinic How the Healthy Heart Works Arteries, Chambers, Valves http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/healthy-heart-works Your-Doctor How the Heart Pumps Animated Tutorial http://your-doctor.com/healthinfocenter/medical-conditions/cardiovascular/heartpump-tutorial.html - Taking one or more pre_script_ion drugs Know your drugs and know them well WebMD Drugs A-Z http://www.webmd.com/drugs/index-drugs.aspx Ask A Patient Rate a drug, side effects, comments, etc. http://askapatient.com/rateyourmedicine.htm Drugs.com Drug Interaction Checker [Read the Disclaimer] Pre_script_ion and over-the-counter drugs may/can interact with other drugs, foods, beverages and dietary supplements. http://www.drugstore.com/pharmacy/drugchecker - - OptumHealth Making the Most of Your Doctor Visits 14 Tips to Make Your Doctor Visits a Success http://www.myoptumhealth.com/portal/Health+Hubs/item/Making+the+Most+of+Your+Doctor+Visits HealingWell You and Your Doctor: It Ta
kes Two to Tango Your medical care is a two way street...... http://www.healingwell.com/library/health/article.asp?author=salvucci&id=5 Quote "Be a questioning patient. Talk to your doctor and ask questions. Studies show that patients who ask the most questions, and are most assertive, get the best results. Be vigilant and speak up!" - Charles Inlander, People's Medical Society . It's your future......be there. . . ☛WebMD/WebMD message boards does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Additionally....Message #2: Additionally.... Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 15, 2009.♥-Healthy F
oods Avoid foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Choose skim or low-fat
... read more »

This is a digest of messages posted to: Heart Health.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCCardio appt. yesterdayInitial Message Posted by: JACKIECHAN84 Date: Sep 15, 2009.Hi everyone. I had my appointment yesterday and it went better than expected. I will not need surgery to replace my heart valve, considering I only have mild regurgitation of the tricuspid valve. As far as my right atrium being enlarged, the dr feels that to be insignificant and nothing to worry about right now. He is concerned with my svt though, considerring I have episodes on a daily basis, especially while exerting myself. He ran blood tests to check my thyroid levels, just to rule that out as a cause of my svt. I will get the results on the 22nd. He also ordered a stress test, so he
can moniter my heart when Im actually in a episode. I will have that done on the 28th and then I will follow up with him on oct. 16. He also uped my dose of metrpolol from 25mg. to 50mg. a day. I can now do light exercise! He is considerring doing a catheter ablation considering I have been in the er numerous times for svt. I wont find out for sure until oct. 16. I feel so relieved to know that the most that will have to be done is just this minimally invasive procedure! I WILL KEEP EVERYONE POSTED! Cardio appt. yesterdayCardio appt. yesterdayMessage #1: Cardio appt. yesterday Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 15, 2009.Thanks for the update. Take extra-good care, C☆ - It's your future......be there. discoloring of skindiscoloring of skinMessage #2: discoloring of skin Posted by: pmtalle Date: Sep 15, 2009.I have had ultrasounds on my legs for arteries and veins for circulation,but that is all I have stomach and intestinal problems and wasn't sure what is going on this is new to me. since the post they stopped turning blue. I feel sick constantly ruled out to be my stomach of course had alot of those problems for last 6 years. had a blockage in intestants recently but doctor told me that wasnt the reason my legs were turning blue and also said wasnt the reason for the weakness lightheadedness, I am really exhausted all the time recently on top of all this. my dad has atherialschlorosis in his legs and i talked to him about what was going
on and he was concerned for my heart more then anything cause of family history of heart diseases and clotting are really bad in familydiscoloring of skinMessage #3: discoloring of skin Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 15, 2009.Normal ultrasounds of your arteries and veins would suggest that circulation probably isn't the problem.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCDizzyInitial Message Posted by: fdeitrick Date: Sep 15, 2009.I am a 53 year old female around 125lbs with a strong family history of heart problems. Maternal grandmother, aunt and mother have all passed away and my dad had to have a quad bypass and later that night had to have a dual pacemaker. Now, I'm concerned about my own health. I do s
ee a cardiologist every 3 months to monitor my bp which last time has gotten better 138/82 but my cholestrol isn't the greatest. Cholestrol is 234, the bad LDL is 155 plus I have mitral value prolapse. The problem is, I was given Crestor and also Atenolol to take once a day however; I felt horrible. I was so sluggish and wasn't myself so I took myself off them after being on it for about 3 months. I feel better but now I'm experiencing light dizziness for about a couple of weeks now and whenever this happens, I can feel my heart either skipping beats or it beats so fast that I have to stop what I'm doing. Can the dizziness be caused by my heart and if so do you know what the problem can be. Am I in danger of having the same issues as my parents? Getting a little concerned.DizzyDizzyMessage #1: Dizzy Posted by: Cardi
ostarUSA1 Date: Sep 15, 2009.Hi: "Am I in danger of having the same issues as my parents?" Hopefully not, though this can not be properly addressed via the Internet. "I have mitral valve prolapse" Mitral valve prolapse (MVP), the most common (and typically benign) heart valve abnormality, may/can cause various symptoms or no symptoms at all. "Was given Crestor and also Atenolol to take once a day however......" "So I took myself off them after......" Does your doctor(s) know about this? "Can the dizziness be caused by my heart" Dizziness or lightheadedness has various causes, and the heart can affect the brain (or vice versa) in various ways. Additionally, of the various types/kinds of heart conditions, symptoms may/can be acute (occurring suddenly), be chronic (occurring over a long period of time), come and go (be transient, fleeting or episodic) or even be sil
ent. Most important, communicate/interact well with your doctor(s). Best of luck down the road of life. Take care, CardioStar☆ WebMD community member (8/99) - - ☑Be well-informed Your Total Health - iVillage/NBC Mitral Valve Prolapse [Patient education guide] http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/mitral-valve-prolapse.html MVP Syndrome/Dysautonomia! http://www.mitralvalveprolapse.com MVP Symptoms & Testing http://www.mvprolapse.com/symptoms_testing.html MVP - Research & Support Forums http://www.mvpsupport.com - ☞ LEARN ABOUT the
Heart WebMD The Heart: (Human Anatomy) Pictures, Definition, Location in the Body and Heart Problems http://www.webmd.com/heart/picture-of-the-heart WebMD Health/The Cleveland Clinic How the Healthy Heart Works Arteries, Chambers, Valves http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/healthy-heart-works Your-Doctor How the Heart Pumps Animated Tutorial http://your-doctor.com/healthinfocenter/medical-conditions/cardiovascular/heartpump-tutorial.html - Taking one or more pre_script_ion drugs Know your drugs and know them well WebMD Drugs A-Z http://www.webmd.com/drugs/index-drugs.aspx Ask A Patient Rate a drug, side effects, comments, etc. http://askapatient.com/rateyourmedicine.htm Drugs.com Drug Interaction Checker [Read the Disclaimer] Pre_script_ion and over-the-counter drugs may/can interact with other drugs, foods, beverages and dietary supplements. http://www.drugstore.com/pharmacy/drugchecker - - OptumHealth Making the Most of Your Doctor Visits 14 Tips to Make Your Doctor Visits a Success http://www.myoptumhealth.com/portal/Health+Hubs/item/Making+the+Most+of+Your+Doctor+Visits HealingWell You and Your Doctor: It Ta
kes Two to Tango Your medical care is a two way street...... http://www.healingwell.com/library/health/article.asp?author=salvucci&id=5 Quote "Be a questioning patient. Talk to your doctor and ask questions. Studies show that patients who ask the most questions, and are most assertive, get the best results. Be vigilant and speak up!" - Charles Inlander, People's Medical Society . It's your future......be there. . . ☛WebMD/WebMD message boards does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Additionally....Message #2: Additionally.... Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 15, 2009.♥-Healthy F
oods Avoid foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Choose skim or low-fat
... read more »

This is a digest of messages posted to: Heart Health.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCAbout the heartInitial Message Posted by: djjoy1212 Date: Sep 16, 2009.I was told that I have a irregular heart shape boarder and that the blood vessel around it was big, What does that mean?borderline ekg before nuclear testInitial Message Posted by: marclive Date: Sep 16, 2009.Dont know what this means but while i was waiting for my nuclreas stress test to begin..the nurse put the leads on and did a ekg reading before i got on the tredmill and i saw it said borderline ecg and bundle branch block didnt see whether it was left or right!But the past ecg i have taken ha
ve been all listed as normal ecgs i hadnt got on the tredmill yet so what does this mean could it be a miss reading or something more sinster...my echo was 100 percent perfect with a ejection fraction of 68% does that add up could i have have a bbb and the echo not see it dopppler echo at that need some feed back!borderline ekg before nuclear testBorderline EKG before nuclear testMessage #1: Borderline EKG before nuclear test Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 16, 2009.Hi: As reported, occasionally, the term "borderline" is applied to a routine resting electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), if unsure about the clinical significance of a certain finding or findings. An ECG/EKG is an inexact science, a relatively
low-sensitivity 2D recording of a dynamic 3D process. Only a series of at-the-moment electrical conduction waveform tracings that provides limited ♥ diagnostics and sometimes yields inconclusive or erroneous results/findings. Additionally, as seen on an ECG/EKG, bundle branch block is a commonly reported electrical conduction abnormality, which is often associated with heart disease, though may/can occur even in those who are otherwise ♥-healthy (info provided below). Take extra-good care, C☆ - - ☑Be well-informed About com Your Guide to Heart Disease with Richard N. Fogoros, M.D. Bundle branch block Causes, significance and treatment Bundle branch block (BB is a relatively frequent finding on the electrocardiogram (ECG). Sometimes BBB itself needs to be treated; sometimes it indicates significant underlying cardiac disease that needs to be t
reated; and sometimes it has so little significance that no treatment is necessary at all...... http://heartdisease.about.com/cs/arrhythmias/a/BBB.htm Right and Left Bundle Branch Block http://heartdisease.about.com/cs/arrhythmias/a/BBB_2.htm Texas Heart Institute Bundle Branch Block Symptoms If there is nothing else wrong with your heart, you probably will not feel any symptoms of bundle branch block. In fact....... Treatment In most cases, bundle branch block does not need treatment. But patients who have...... http://texasheart.org/HIC/Topics/Cond/bbblock.cfm - Quote "Be a questioning patient. Talk to your doctor and ask questions. Studies show th
at patients who ask the most questions, and are most assertive, get the best results. Be vigilant and speak up!" - Charles Inlander, People's Medical Society . It's your future......be there. Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCCARDIAC QUESTIONS ABOUT 12 YR OLDInitial Message Posted by: GRUTTLES Date: Sep 16, 2009.WHAT IS THE "NORMAL" MEASUREMENT OF THE AORTIC ANNULUS, SINUSES OF VALSALVA AND THE SINOTUBULAR JUNCTION?MARFAN SYNDROME/ LOEYS-DIETZInitial Message Posted by: GRUTTLES Date: Sep 16, 2009.INFO/OPINION ABOUT 12 Y
R OLD WITH DNA PROVEN MARFANS WITH LOEYS-DIETZ SYMPTOMS AS WELL NOT SEEN IN MARFANS? HOW TO TREAT, WHEN TO ACTPregnant w/ heart issuesPregnant w/ heart issuesMessage #6: Pregnant w/ heart issues Posted by: JACKIECHAN84 Date: Sep 16, 2009.I can definately relate to what your going through. I am a 25 yr old with heart disease ( including svt, right atrium enlargement, and mild regurgitation of the tricuspid valve) who last year gave birth to my second child. When I had my first child I was unaware I even had heart disease and everything went fine as far as my hearts concerned. Nothing out of the ordinary for a vaginal birth that was induced. With my second child I was aware of the heart disease and I was a little worried about giving birth but the dr. reassured me I would be fine. I did notice more heart related symptoms whil
e being pregnant considering my heart was under more stress, but the labor went great. I was induced and chose to have a epidural and pain medication to reduce the pain in turn putting less stress on my heart. Everything went well, and I had no heart related symptoms while giving birth. I hope everything goes as well for you and if something did go wrong just remember youll be in a hospital where they can control situations that might arrive! PVC'sPVCsMessage #1: PVCs Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 16, 2009.Hi: "I don't find much info on the web regarding this procedure" Actually, there's quite a bit of good info out there, starting with - Your Total Health - iVillage/NBC Cardiac Ablation [Patient education guide] http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/cardiac-ablation.html AND St. Jude Medical Catheter Ablation http://www.sjm.com/procedures/procedure.aspx?name=Catheter+Ablation§ion=Overview "Have had PVCs for at least 10 years now" The most common type of palpitations, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs, occurs even in many ♥-healthy individuals), is described that the heart is flip-flopping, fluttering, jumping, pausing or stopping briefly (it's actually not doing that), pounding, skipping, thumping, or strong, hard, or forceful beats being felt in the chest, neck, throat. Sometimes, PVCs are not felt/noticed at all. PVCs are typically harmless (benign), be it isolated (single), coup
lets (2-in-row), triplets (3-in-a-row) or salvos (short bursts of 3 or more in-a-row), bigeminy (occurring every other beat), trigeminy (occurring every third beat), quadrigeminy (occurring every fourth beat), etc., etc. However, the main problem or concern (even more so, much more emphasized for those with certain major or serious heart conditions) with PVCs is when sustained ventricular tachycardia (runs of PVCs over 30 seconds) occurs. Also, non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT, runs of PVCs under 30 seconds, but typically not salvos) may/can become serious as well if it occurs frequently (episodes are grouped closely/tightly together). PVCs (or premature atrial contractions, PACs) may/can occur with/in the presence of bradycardia (heart rate under 60 beats per minute), tachycardia or supraventricular tachycardia (heart rate over 100 beats per minute), and symptoms may/can occur with PVCs or PACs, such as chest pain/discomfort/pressure/tight
ness, difficulty breathing, lightheadedness/dizziness, and in uncommon to rare cases, syncope (temporary loss of consciousness, which includes passing out or fainting). ALWAYS be proactive in your health care and treatment. Sometimes this requires being assertive. Most important, communicate/interact well with your doctors. Best of luck down the road of life. Live long and prosper. Take care, CardioStar☆ WebMD community member (8/99) - - ☑Be well-informed Your Total Health - NBC/iVillage Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) [Patient education guide] http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/premature-ventricular-contractions.html MedicineNet - We Bring Doctors' Knowledge to you Palpitations (PACs/PVCs) http://www.medicinenet.com/Palpitations/article.htm eHealthMD Palpitations <a
... read more »

This is a digest of messages posted to: Heart Health.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCAbout the heartInitial Message Posted by: djjoy1212 Date: Sep 16, 2009.I was told that I have a irregular heart shape boarder and that the blood vessel around it was big, What does that mean?borderline ekg before nuclear testInitial Message Posted by: marclive Date: Sep 16, 2009.Dont know what this means but while i was waiting for my nuclreas stress test to begin..the nurse put the leads on and did a ekg reading before i got on the tredmill and i saw it said borderline ecg and bundle branch block didnt see whether it was left or right!But the past ecg i have taken ha
ve been all listed as normal ecgs i hadnt got on the tredmill yet so what does this mean could it be a miss reading or something more sinster...my echo was 100 percent perfect with a ejection fraction of 68% does that add up could i have have a bbb and the echo not see it dopppler echo at that need some feed back!borderline ekg before nuclear testBorderline EKG before nuclear testMessage #1: Borderline EKG before nuclear test Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 16, 2009.Hi: As reported, occasionally, the term "borderline" is applied to a routine resting electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), if unsure about the clinical significance of a certain finding or findings. An ECG/EKG is an inexact science, a relatively
low-sensitivity 2D recording of a dynamic 3D process. Only a series of at-the-moment electrical conduction waveform tracings that provides limited ♥ diagnostics and sometimes yields inconclusive or erroneous results/findings. Additionally, as seen on an ECG/EKG, bundle branch block is a commonly reported electrical conduction abnormality, which is often associated with heart disease, though may/can occur even in those who are otherwise ♥-healthy (info provided below). Take extra-good care, C☆ - - ☑Be well-informed About com Your Guide to Heart Disease with Richard N. Fogoros, M.D. Bundle branch block Causes, significance and treatment Bundle branch block (BB is a relatively frequent finding on the electrocardiogram (ECG). Sometimes BBB itself needs to be treated; sometimes it indicates significant underlying cardiac disease that needs to be t
reated; and sometimes it has so little significance that no treatment is necessary at all...... http://heartdisease.about.com/cs/arrhythmias/a/BBB.htm Right and Left Bundle Branch Block http://heartdisease.about.com/cs/arrhythmias/a/BBB_2.htm Texas Heart Institute Bundle Branch Block Symptoms If there is nothing else wrong with your heart, you probably will not feel any symptoms of bundle branch block. In fact....... Treatment In most cases, bundle branch block does not need treatment. But patients who have...... http://texasheart.org/HIC/Topics/Cond/bbblock.cfm - Quote "Be a questioning patient. Talk to your doctor and ask questions. Studies show th
at patients who ask the most questions, and are most assertive, get the best results. Be vigilant and speak up!" - Charles Inlander, People's Medical Society . It's your future......be there. Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCCARDIAC QUESTIONS ABOUT 12 YR OLDInitial Message Posted by: GRUTTLES Date: Sep 16, 2009.WHAT IS THE "NORMAL" MEASUREMENT OF THE AORTIC ANNULUS, SINUSES OF VALSALVA AND THE SINOTUBULAR JUNCTION?MARFAN SYNDROME/ LOEYS-DIETZInitial Message Posted by: GRUTTLES Date: Sep 16, 2009.INFO/OPINION ABOUT 12 Y
R OLD WITH DNA PROVEN MARFANS WITH LOEYS-DIETZ SYMPTOMS AS WELL NOT SEEN IN MARFANS? HOW TO TREAT, WHEN TO ACTPregnant w/ heart issuesPregnant w/ heart issuesMessage #6: Pregnant w/ heart issues Posted by: JACKIECHAN84 Date: Sep 16, 2009.I can definately relate to what your going through. I am a 25 yr old with heart disease ( including svt, right atrium enlargement, and mild regurgitation of the tricuspid valve) who last year gave birth to my second child. When I had my first child I was unaware I even had heart disease and everything went fine as far as my hearts concerned. Nothing out of the ordinary for a vaginal birth that was induced. With my second child I was aware of the heart disease and I was a little worried about giving birth but the dr. reassured me I would be fine. I did notice more heart related symptoms whil
e being pregnant considering my heart was under more stress, but the labor went great. I was induced and chose to have a epidural and pain medication to reduce the pain in turn putting less stress on my heart. Everything went well, and I had no heart related symptoms while giving birth. I hope everything goes as well for you and if something did go wrong just remember youll be in a hospital where they can control situations that might arrive! PVC'sPVCsMessage #1: PVCs Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 16, 2009.Hi: "I don't find much info on the web regarding this procedure" Actually, there's quite a bit of good info out there, starting with - Your Total Health - iVillage/NBC Cardiac Ablation [Patient education guide] http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/cardiac-ablation.html AND St. Jude Medical Catheter Ablation http://www.sjm.com/procedures/procedure.aspx?name=Catheter+Ablation§ion=Overview "Have had PVCs for at least 10 years now" The most common type of palpitations, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs, occurs even in many ♥-healthy individuals), is described that the heart is flip-flopping, fluttering, jumping, pausing or stopping briefly (it's actually not doing that), pounding, skipping, thumping, or strong, hard, or forceful beats being felt in the chest, neck, throat. Sometimes, PVCs are not felt/noticed at all. PVCs are typically harmless (benign), be it isolated (single), coup
lets (2-in-row), triplets (3-in-a-row) or salvos (short bursts of 3 or more in-a-row), bigeminy (occurring every other beat), trigeminy (occurring every third beat), quadrigeminy (occurring every fourth beat), etc., etc. However, the main problem or concern (even more so, much more emphasized for those with certain major or serious heart conditions) with PVCs is when sustained ventricular tachycardia (runs of PVCs over 30 seconds) occurs. Also, non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT, runs of PVCs under 30 seconds, but typically not salvos) may/can become serious as well if it occurs frequently (episodes are grouped closely/tightly together). PVCs (or premature atrial contractions, PACs) may/can occur with/in the presence of bradycardia (heart rate under 60 beats per minute), tachycardia or supraventricular tachycardia (heart rate over 100 beats per minute), and symptoms may/can occur with PVCs or PACs, such as chest pain/discomfort/pressure/tight
ness, difficulty breathing, lightheadedness/dizziness, and in uncommon to rare cases, syncope (temporary loss of consciousness, which includes passing out or fainting). ALWAYS be proactive in your health care and treatment. Sometimes this requires being assertive. Most important, communicate/interact well with your doctors. Best of luck down the road of life. Live long and prosper. Take care, CardioStar☆ WebMD community member (8/99) - - ☑Be well-informed Your Total Health - NBC/iVillage Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) [Patient education guide] http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/premature-ventricular-contractions.html MedicineNet - We Bring Doctors' Knowledge to you Palpitations (PACs/PVCs) http://www.medicinenet.com/Palpitations/article.htm eHealthMD Palpitations <a
... read more »

This is a digest of messages posted to: Heart Health.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACC16 year oldaughter with chest painInitial Message Posted by: wylie752 Date: Sep 17, 2009.My 16 year old daughter has been experiencing chest pain; however, there are other symptoms.
-She seems to get extremely hot
-pale
-complains about not being able to see
-then she passes out.
It seems to be happening more and more. She refuses to see a doctor. She states that it is nothing, but I am very worried.
Any advice!!16 year oldaughter with chest pain16 yr. old daughter with chest painMessage #1: 16 yr. old daughter with chest pain Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 17, 2009.Hi: Very worried no doubt. Obviously she should see a doctor promptly. In general-only here, chest pain, stationary or radiating elsewhere, with or without accompanying symptoms, has various causes, cardiac and non-cardiac. Additionally, of the various types/kinds of heart conditions, some which can at occur at ANY AGE, symptoms may/can be acute (occurring suddenly), be chronic (occurring over a long period of time), come and go (be transient, fleeting or episodic) or even be silent. Best of luck your daughter down the road of life. May she live long and prosper. Take care, CardioStar☆ WebMD community member (8/99) - - ☑Be well-informed MedlinePlus - Trusted Health Information for You Chest pain http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003079.htm Mayo Clinic Chest pain http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chest-pain/DS00016 eMedicine Health Chest pain http://www.emedicinehealth.com/chest_pain/article_em.htm - Non-cardiac chest pain Musculoskeletal-related The chest contains many muscles, bones, tendons, and cartilage and strains or sprains to any of these may/can can cause chest pain. Chest pain associated with musculoskeletal injury is typically sharp and confined to a spec
ific area of the chest. The pain may/can be brought on by movement of the chest and/or arms into certain positions, and often is relieved by changing position. The pain may/can be triggered off by pushing on part of the chest and often become worse when taking a deep breath. Though the pain typically last only seconds, it may/can also persist for days or longer. If/when chest pain increases when you press your finger on the painful site, or if you can pinpoint the spot that hurts, it is most likely chest wall-related pain, which may/can be caused by strained muscles or ligaments or even by a fractured rib. BCWP/TBCWP Benign chest wall pain/Transitory benign chest wall pain This pain may/can be brief or fleeting and often described as being sharp. - WebMD Heart Disease TYPES Men and Women Acquired in life or congenital (born with it) http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/heart-disease-men Heart Disease SYMPTOMS http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/heart-disease-symptoms Mayo Clinic Heart Disease Definition. Symptoms. Causes. Risk factors. Complications. Tests and diagnosis. Treatments and drugs. Prevention.... Heart disease is a broad term used to describe a range of diseases that affect your heart, and in some cases, your blood vessels. The various diseases that fall under the ☂ of...... http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heart-disease/DS01120 - HeartSite ☞Heart info, cardiac tests (commonly performed, mainstream types) info, actual diagnostic images http://www.he
artsite.com - - OptumHealth Making the Most of Your Doctor Visits 14 Tips to Make Your Doctor Visits a Success http://www.myoptumhealth.com/portal/Health+Hubs/item/Making+the+Most+of+Your+Doctor+Visits HealingWell You and Your Doctor: It Takes Two to Tango Your medical care is a TWO WAY street...... http://www.healingwell.com/library/health/article.asp?author=salvucci&id=5 Quote "Be a questioning patient. Talk to your doctor and ask questions. Studies show that patients who ask the most questions, and are most assertive, get the best results. Be vigilant and speak up!" - Charles Inlander, People's Medical Society . ☛WebMD/WebMD messag
e boards does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.16 year oldaughter with chest painMessage #2: 16 year oldaughter with chest pain Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 17, 2009.She absolutely needs to see a doctor. She needs to understand that her symptoms could be life-threatening. Chest pain followed by passing out is extremely concerning.About the heartAbout the heartMessage #1: About the heart Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 17, 2009.Do you have a copy of the test report that suggested that? It's a bit difficult to know exactly what was meant _base_d on your de_script_ion.borderline ekg before nuclear testborderl
ine ekg before nuclear testMessage #2: borderline ekg before nuclear test Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 17, 2009.If your echo and stress test were normal, I imagine that your cardiologist won't be concerned if you have a bundle branch block - they are present in a small percentage of people with otherwise healthy hearts.CARDIAC QUESTIONS ABOUT 12 YR OLDCARDIAC QUESTIONS ABOUT 12 YR OLDMessage #1: CARDIAC QUESTIONS ABOUT 12 YR OLD Posted by: James_Beckerman_MD Date: Sep 17, 2009.For adults, 3.7 cm is the upper limits of normal for aortic root size. I'm not a pediatric cardiologist, so would defer your specific question to someone in that specialty. Similarly, your question about Marfan syndrome is best directed to a specialist. Depending on your
area, you might contact the Marfan Center at Stanford. I trained under some of those doctors and I imagine they would be very helpful.Heart Failure/Heart Disease: James Beckerman, MD, FACCFrustrated with test results.Initial Message Posted by: BethanyDawn79 Date: Sep 17, 2009.About 8 years ago I was diagnosed with MVP with regurgitation. I am now 30 and for the past 3-4 months I have been expiriencing palpitations (15+ times daily) shortness of breath, chest pain, tingling and coldness of hands and feet, persistent unproductive cough, my resting blood pressure varies but usually around 92/54, average resting BPM of 115-130, severe fatigue, and intolerance to heat and exercise. I've had 24 hr Holter (no events) ECO (mild regurgitation of the tricuspid and mitral valve, no prolapse noted) A stress test (abnormal) and a Nuclear St
ress Test (normal findings). Thyroid function is normal. My cardiologist now wants to set me up with an event monitor.
I am beginning to feel like I am going crazy or I need a second opinion. I just don't know where to go from here.Frustrated with test results.Frustrated with test resultsMessage #1: Frustrated with test results Posted by: CardiostarUSA1 Date: Sep 17, 2009.Hi: You're not going crazy, but do feel free to seek a second professional medical opinion. In mentioning an average resting BPM of 115-130, and looking at some of your other symptoms, noteworthy, as applicable, there is a specific condition known/referred to as inappropriate sinus tachycardia. About com Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) A misunderstood cardiac arrhythmia IST is a condition in which an individual’s resting heart rate is abnormally high (greater than 100 beats per minute), their heart rate increases rap
idly with minimal exertion, and their rapid heart rate is accompanied by symptoms of palpitations, fatigue, and exercise intolerance...... What are the characteristics of IST? ☞While IST can be seen in
... read more »