My cardiologist recommended I get on metropolol. My blood pressure, cholesterol and pulse are all normal and I have no chest pains, shortness of breath or other heart problem symptoms. My EKG showed some irregularity, and an ultrasound showed mild Plaqueing in one carotid artery. I have read that once you start a beta blocker you're on it for the rest of your life. Also, there can be some pretty serious side effects. Any thoughts?