Cold Medicines and arrythmias

[john w]

I have been diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia
and have had an AICD and pacemaker for 7 years although
no Vtach episodes for about 3 years. I am on Cardizem
CD(360mg/day) to prevent afib(no high blood pressure
problem). For 2 years I have had a problem with one inner
ear not draining properly due to colds/sinus stopping up
the eustacion(sp?) tube. What cold/sinus  medicines can
I safely take that might clear this problem? Ear doctor
has tried guaifenesin(1200mg/12hrs)and Nasonex spray but
these have not worked. The only thing that works is putting a
vent tube in eardrum- I've had 3 of these. Help!

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear John,

As you know many of the over the counter cold preparations may cause an increase in arrhythmias.  You might tryclaritin if this is ok with your physician and have this monitored.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

thank you for your comments.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

thank you for your comments.

[Carrie]

I hope you don't mind me asking, but do you have heart disease and that is why you have ventricular tachycardia?  I have supraventricular tachycardia which originates in the upper chambers of the heart and I always wonder if it will deteriorate into ventricular tachycardia at some point.  Thank you ahead of time!
Carrie

[john w]

Response to Carrie: Have never had heart trouble other than arrythmias which started at age 56. Have bundle branch block which may be congenital or brought on by stress.