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If I have RBBB, can I still safely run a half marathon?

Thanks for the question. RBBB is an electrical abnormality. It can be seen in normal cardiac condition. Please see your...

Can you tell me what my symptoms represent?

Thanks for the question.  I do not know your risk factors for heart disease.  Your neck pain may not be...

Is AV node ablation and a biventricular pacemaker a good option for controlling afib?

If 2 AF ablation procedures have failed to keep normal rhythm, the likelihood for cure is minimal, so rate control...

Is a grade 1 mild reversible defect in the anterior apical segment of the left ventricle considered an area of ischemia?

Yes, in general a reversible defect is considered to be ischemic. However, it needs to be placed in the patients...

Is it possible for a person on a ventilator to go into cardiac arrest?

No. It all depends on what caused him to be ventilated. Regards.

I am a young father, and I have been diagnosed with Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy, now with a BiV pacemaker.  My heart function has improved from <20% to 40%.  I take my medications, but wonder if there are possible stem cell/regenerative treatments for someone like me in the near future?

There will be in the near future, but if your LVEF has improved from 20% to 40% recently, you may...

My heart function is only 30%.  What can I do to improve it?

In most cases, medications give the best chance for improvement of heart function.  Unfortunately however, in many situations no improvement...

What precautions should be taken after a permanent pacemaker has been implanted?

I would recommend that you do the following: 1- Avoid large generators and venders 2- Avoid direct hit or trauma...

I am an active 22-year-old male that exercises regularly, but get palpitations and lightheadedness with exercise and at rest. An EKG has shown Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block. Should I be concerned?

The IRBBB is probably inconsequential and it is not the cause of pain or racing heart. A continuous monitor for...

I have had high blood pressure for the last year. What antihypertensive medications do not lower heart rate? I have tried several different medications, and have had episodes of severe dizziness and almost fainting with heavy activity and also exposure to the heat. I have made several trips to the ER with these episodes with a low heart rate and low blood pressure. My doctor has had no success with different medications in preventing these episodes. Can you advise us what to do next?

Dear Mr Nicholson, I reviewed your letter, it appears to me that you are sensitive to BP meds. Those meds...

Can bradycardia cause a headache that has lasted continuously (24 hours per day unless medicated) for the last 2 years?

Bradycardia from Sick Sinus Syndrome (aging of the natural pacemaker) can cause fatigue, to be tireless, inability to perform physical...

What is the treatment for pulmonary hypertension? Could it be caused by radiation damage?

Pulmonary hypertension can result from radiation induced lung damage. Treatment options for this condition are quite limited but could include...