Treating atrial fibrillation

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jul 29 2009

Q: Has anyone ever given any feedback about the effects of using Resperate for someone with Atrial Fibrillation? I have recently developed it and wondered if use of the Resperate might have a favorable effect. I use it daily, sometimes twice a day.

A: The RESPeRATE is not a treatment for atrial fibrillation. If your heart beat isn’t staying controlled, go see your doctor. Over time, it can become harder to control atrial fibrillation. Drugs often need to be increased or changed. Sometimes surgical ablation is recommended. To learn more about this common problem, click here.

Please Note: Do not use RESPeRATE without consulting your physician if you suffer or have suffered in the past from: Active ischemic heart disease/unstable angina, bradycardia, severe congestive heart failure, chronic atrial fibrillation, stroke resulting in permanent impairment, chronic renal failure, severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis and emphysema, major organ failure, sleep paralysis, have a pacemaker or if you are pregnant.

What can I take to help control my atrial fibrillation?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 18 2008

Q: What are options for the control of Atrial Fibrillation besides taking Amioderone? I am concerned about its reported side effects. I am 81 and in good health. My BP tends to be in the low 100s over 60s. (109/65) I have been taking beta blocker Metroprolol and Coumaden since the first incident.

A: There are medications besides Amiodarone that are used to treat atrial fibrillation. Flecainide, Propafenone, Sotalol, and Dofetilide are some examples. Also it is possible to have an ablation procedure which destroys a small amount of tissue in the heart felt to be the origin of the conduction problem. You should discuss your concerns with your doctor.

Undiagnosed hypertension

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 17 2008

Q: What has happened to the heart if high blood pressure has been undiagnosed/untreated for about a year?

A: You need to discuss this with your doctor. Clearly something has changed. Perhaps you have gained a lot of weight, have developed venous insufficiency, or some other more serious medical problem. Without knowing what has caused the change, it is not possible to make a treatment recommendation.

Why does my heart beat seem faster in the morning?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 10 2008

Q: Why does my heart beat seem to be faster when I wake in the morning?

A: When you are asleep, the body is at rest and has lower oxygen needs. Your heart does not have to work as hard. With awakening you become active, your oxygen needs increase, and your heart beats faster.

What are the symptons of cardiomyopathy?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Feb 22 2008

Q: My father died at 41 from Cardiomyopathy. Does my abnormal swelling at the ankles and feet (with spotty discoloration under the skin and darkening of the veins) have anything to do with the same disease?

A: Disease of the heart or vascular system and other organs can result in abnormal ankle swelling. Ankle swelling should be evaluated by a doctor.

Is there a connection between high blood pressure and hypothyroidism?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Feb 19 2008

Q: Is there any connection between hypothyroid and blood pressure?

A: Yes, thyroid hormones affect the way the heart works. Untreated hypothyroidism can make the heart beat slower, pump less efficiently, and can make blood vessels more rigid. These effects can cause high blood pressure.

Exercise and resting high heart rate

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Feb 19 2008

Q: I am a 65 year old woman in good health. However, is it ok to workout on days when I have an elevated heart rate?

A: If your heart rate at rest is abnormally high, you need to be evaluated by your doctor. A normal resting heart rate in a person over the age of 10 years ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. People in better physical shape will be in the lower part of the range. For exercise purposes, the maximum number you should get your heart rate up to is 220 minus your age. In your case this would be a maximum rate of 155 (220-65=155).

Systolic higher than diastolic

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jan 14 2008

Q: Is it possible for your systolic BP to become lower than your diastolic? What happens if it does?

A: Systolic blood pressure occurs when the ventricles of your heart contract so it is always the highest. Diastolic blood pressure occurs with the relaxation of the heart between contractions. If your heart can’t beat effectively enough to raise your systolic pressure above your diastolic pressure, you need to speak to a physician.

What is the best way to switch from one drug to another?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 08 2007

Q: My Dr. told me to change my BP meds from Tenex to Lisinapril but I’m afraid going off Tenex will cause severe heart palpations. Should I slowly taper off the Tenex?

A: You should talk to your doctor about the best way to switch from one drug to the other as the sudden stopping of Tenex may lead to anxiety, nervousness and elevation of blood pressure. An irregular heartbeat usually isn’t a problem. Lisinopril starts working about an hour after it is taken so your blood pressure will likely stay in control.

Can vicodin cause high blood pressure?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: May 24 2007

Q: Does Vicodin cause low or high blood pressure?

A: Vicodin is a pain killer intended for short term use because it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Adverse cardiovascular reactions have been reported with use of Vicodin. These include slowing of the heart beat, palpitations, hypertension, hypotension, and fainting. (Gold Standard Inc. Drug Information 2007)