Forceful heartbeat/high blood pressure caused by myocardial bridge?

[TomJoad]

Is this possible?  Can a tunneled artery result in forceful (not fast just hard) heartbeat and borderline high blood pressure?
Is anyone familiar with any other symptoms that an MB can cause?
Thanks!

[Al Dente]

This is a good question, and one that I hope you are adressing with an interventional cardiologist.  Myocardial bridging can be problematic--depending on the vessel, and it's location.  I like you, have a large section of my LAD tunneled.  I have around a 30% blockage in the LAD.

I understand what an incredibly forceful beat feels like--without all my heart meds, it's extremely uncomfortable.  The cardios during a cath know it too.

Elevation in BP can cause angina, and with the squeazing effect of the heart muscle around a vessel like the LAD not the best (it all depends on your particular anatomy).  My BP was running high over the last few weeks (for me, high is 140/80 w/ 3 heart meds).  I had my ARB adjusted, and my BP has come down to an acceptable 110/60s, and my angina has significantly lessened, along with the extremely forceful beat.

I would talk with an interventional cardiologist (not just a guy or gal that looks at pictures) for an opinion.

Good luck.

[mariop]

What is an interventional cardiologist, and how do you find one?

Also, would appreciate if you explained what ARB means and if you could tell us the meds you find effective for your high blood pressure.

Thanks.

[Al Dente]

hi....i'm not a doc, so these are my opinions.  make sure you run your questions by your physicians.

an interventional cardiologist is one that will do procedures like heart catheterizations, rather than one that doesn't do invasive procedures.  some cardios focus on preventative measures, and reviewing diagnostic non-invasive procedures (these docs can be very helpful too).  in my opinion, and interventional cardiologist has more of a "feel" for cardiac symptoms and a diverse understanding of heart situations (i.e., in some people, a 50% blockage will cause angina, while 70% is considered the point where pain is felt.  a doctor with 10,000 produres under his/her belt has a good understanding IMO.

their experience in the labs gives them a hands on approach to cardiac care.  they are pull together symptoms and findings well.  a doc with an intimate understanding of coronary anatomy is very important for an accurate diagnosis.

bp medications should be tailored to the patient and their conditions.  Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme), ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers), thiozides all can be helpful in cardiovascular issues.  each med has its pros and cons.

good luck.