Answers to your Questions about CHF and EECP

Question from Susan D.: I started having problems with my heart beating very fast about two years ago. I have been taking Toprol 100 mgs for the last two years. My doctor says he doesn't know why my heart is doing this. I'm wondering can it get worse and will I eventually have to wear a pace-maker? I am a 57 year old, African American female and in good health otherwise. Heart problems run in my family. Thank you very much-SD

Answer: Thank you for your question. Based on your brief e-mail, I do not know why your heart is beating very fast either. I strongly urge you to pursue this further with your doctor. If your doctor cannot determine the cause of this problem, then perhaps you should seek a second opinion and go for further testing. It is essential to understand your health conditions so that you can follow through with the most appropriate treatments. Until we know why you are having this problem, we cannot suggest any other treatments including a pacemaker. Thank you again for your inquiry.

Question from Mary B.: My husband is 89 years old. He has been in CHF for almost 3 years. He has an implanted ICD device. He has an ejection fraction of 10-15%. He has not had stents or bypass surgery. He has also had TIA's as well as carotid surgery for a stroke. He is not a candidate for any type of surgery. Would your EECP help him or is it too risky for a person of his age and in late stage CHF?

Answer: Your husband's age and late stage of CHF, as well as his ICD, do not preclude EECP. In fact, I have treated many patients with similar conditions and were able to achieve excellent results. However, EECP is really best suited for CHF patients who have coronary artery disease as well. If this applies to your husband, I encourage you to look into EECP treatment. Thank you for the inquiry.

Sincerely,

Dr. Braverman

This page last updated on 2008-07-11 09:29:56