Mrs.

[Kate78]

My recent EKG was abnormal and had listed on it "probable anteroseptal infarction."  I was rather distrubed it was abnormal because I am a very active 78 female weighing 100 lbs. and 5' tall.  I am very diet conscious since high cholestral is in my genes.  My weakness is something sweet after meals, but otherwise i eat very healthy.  I also take daily vitamins and minerals.  I ride my bike about an hour each day, volunteer in two organizations, golf a couple of times a week, weed and trim bushes, and do my own housework.  Please explain this abnorrmality in layman's language.  Thank you for this service.

[Douglas Bogart, MD]

An echocardiogram or a nuclear scan will show if you have had a heart attack at some point.

[ocie]

Just had an abnormal EKG/anteroseptal infarct resulting. Bp reading 176/81,HR 59. Had a strange episode Thanksgiving night without any for warning. Appears I may have had a heart attack. Can you give me any information to help with these findings?  Will be seeing a cardiologist in ten days.

[Darcy Green Conaway, MD]

Often that is something the computer reads because it doesn't detect the forces along the chest wall...sometimes that is because breast tissue "gets in the way". I certainly would see a cardiologist to have it thoroughly evaluated but it can be incorrect.