Member Comments are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum. ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! MedHelp International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any comments posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. MedHelp International does not endorse the views of any user.
Heart Disease (Expert Forum)
Vagal Response
This forum is for questions and support regarding heart issues such as: Angina, Angioplasty, Arrhythmia, Bypass Surgery, Cardiomyopathy, Coronary Artery Disease, Defibrillator, Heart Attack, Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, Mitral Valve Prolapse, Pacemaker, PAD, Stenosis, Stress Tests.
Vagal Response
by Avon, Jun 16, 2000 12:00AM
I have been doctoring for about a month with symptoms relating to a heart problem. On my first visit to the GP he did an EKG, which showed a tall spike(representing my lower left side of the heart. I also had a high blood pressure (150/110). He did extensive blood work at this time. On my next visit, My blood work returned okay and BP still running high. He sent me for a cardiolite stress test. The results came back with a possible blockage to the lower left side of the heart. I then was scheduled for a catherization.
The cath showed NOTHING> I did have a Vagal down episode right before the cath. The cardiologist said that could be related to my syptoms (symptoms) and Now I am confused?? I also had this same type of episode before sinus surgery 7 years ago. I am taking atenolol 25 mg. He said a Beta blocker would more than likely solve my problem. He walks away and explains none of the above, so I hope you understand my confusion. If you could help in any way just to explain I would greatly appreciate your help.I have looked up several things on the internet,but I am still confused. I didn't faint. My BP and heart rate dropped very quickly and it took atripine to bring me back. Also, does hydration have any thing to do with this????
The cath showed NOTHING> I did have a Vagal down episode right before the cath. The cardiologist said that could be related to my syptoms (symptoms) and Now I am confused?? I also had this same type of episode before sinus surgery 7 years ago. I am taking atenolol 25 mg. He said a Beta blocker would more than likely solve my problem. He walks away and explains none of the above, so I hope you understand my confusion. If you could help in any way just to explain I would greatly appreciate your help.I have looked up several things on the internet,but I am still confused. I didn't faint. My BP and heart rate dropped very quickly and it took atripine to bring me back. Also, does hydration have any thing to do with this????
Doctor's Answer
by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB, Jun 16, 2000 12:00AM
Your vagal response at the time of catheterization is not that unusual. It happens to patients not infrequently (especially if dehydrated), and in and of itself, is not a problem. Surgery can cause the same reaction. It seems that your major problem is very high blood pressure. This should be treated with medications, and likely the dose of beta blocker you are on now is not enough for you. In addition to dosage adjustments, you may need additional medications to control your blood pressure.
