Hi! In 5/2000, I was diagnosed with idiopathic non-A1-AD moderate to severe emphysema, severe asthma, GERD and allergies. I am otherwise in excellent health, good physical condition, walk regularly, and 46-years old, female and 5'5" and 130 pounds. I have no other health conditions and always had low normal blood pressure and heart rates. My daily maintenance meds include Serevent, Atrovent, inhaled steroid, PPI, nasal steroid and antihistimine. My conditions are well controlled and stable.
I purchased a Nonin 9500 Onyx personal pulse oximeter 4/2003 because I was concerned about my oxygen saturation and heart rates. (It was accurate against all the National Jewish devices I tested it against 8/2003.) I have noticed that my heart rate while just sitting is often in the 90s or 100s & it increases rapdily with activity. When climbing stairs, the heart rate can climb to 170+ while the O2 SATs drop to 90.
My pulmonologists naturally are mainly concerned about my SATs, and tell me I can exercise as long as I keep my saturation rates at or above 90. My annual EKGs (done by internist) are normal, as was the echocardiogram ordered 8/2002 at my request to check for 2ndary pulmonary hypertension. The "Care Connection" nurse funded by insurer urged me to see a cardiologist now about working with my pulmos to have the best treatment of my heart & lungs.
At what point do you have your patients see a cardiologist? What criteria do you use in making this decision? We suspect my lung meds are increasing my heart rate & I need guidance. THANKS!
Aloha,
Starion