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Heart Disease (Expert Forum)
Asymptomatic ST-depression and operation
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Asymptomatic ST-depression and operation
by Arne Petersen, Oct 08, 1999 12:00AM
Ten years ago I had an exercise ECG and was told I had a 2 mm ST
depression, but as this was ascending, I should not worry.
Lately I have had a feeling of constriction in the sternum, radiating to the lower jaw and teeth when I am stressed. These episodes come about once a week, but never with physical exercise. They don't last very long. There is no actual pain. My doctor took an ECG which was normal at rest and referred me to an exercise ECG. I was told I had a significant ST
depression and should start medication immediately (beta blockers, aspirine, lovastine to lower my 228 cholesterol figure).I should also be referred to angiography and be prepared for possible angioplasty or bypass operation.
I am 56 years old, male. Until now I have considered myself quite healthy, although I am a bit overweight (162 lbs., 5'9") and too sedentary. BP is slightly above normal - 140/90 to 150/90.
Is all this standard procedure or does it sound a bit excessive?
depression, but as this was ascending, I should not worry.
Lately I have had a feeling of constriction in the sternum, radiating to the lower jaw and teeth when I am stressed. These episodes come about once a week, but never with physical exercise. They don't last very long. There is no actual pain. My doctor took an ECG which was normal at rest and referred me to an exercise ECG. I was told I had a significant ST
depression and should start medication immediately (beta blockers, aspirine, lovastine to lower my 228 cholesterol figure).I should also be referred to angiography and be prepared for possible angioplasty or bypass operation.
I am 56 years old, male. Until now I have considered myself quite healthy, although I am a bit overweight (162 lbs., 5'9") and too sedentary. BP is slightly above normal - 140/90 to 150/90.
Is all this standard procedure or does it sound a bit excessive?
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, MD, Oct 11, 1999 12:00AM
, Oct 11, 1999 12:00AM
No, I don't think it's excessive. You are at high risk for coronary artery blockages (1. male sex, 2. high cholesterol, 3. high blood pressure, 4. Overweight, 5. low exercise) Given the stress test there probably are blockages that will need some type of therapy. However, stress tests can be wrong and a normal angiogram would be the best news for all involved.
Member Comments (1)
by JUSTCAUSE, May 30, 2008 10:54AM
A related discussion, st depression was started.
