Shortness of breath. The heart is swollen. I had fever two days ago. His past reports are required for further treatment

Hello Ramani Ji,

Fluctuating blood pressure readings like 170/95 and 146/92 are a concern, especially at your age of 67. High blood pressure, even without symptoms, can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.

Recommendations:

1. Keep a record of your BP readings at fixed timings throughout the day for a few days.
2. A medical professional will evaluate the readings, consider your overall health, and suggest lifestyle changes or medications if needed.
3. Limit salt intake, maintain a healthy diet, stay active, and manage stress to help control your BP.

Do not ignore these readings, even in the absence of symptoms, as early intervention is key to preventing complications.

Hello Nafeesa Ji,

Your mother’s condition, with cardiomegaly (an enlarged heart), severe breathlessness, and a very low ejection fraction of 20%, indicates advanced heart failure. These symptoms require immediate and comprehensive medical attention.

What You Can Do:

1. Consult a Cardiologist Immediately:

   • A cardiologist can evaluate her condition and adjust medications to improve heart function and manage symptoms.
   • Advanced therapies like cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) or implantable devices (ICDs) might be recommended.

2. Optimize Positioning for Breathing:

   • Propping her up with pillows while lying down can reduce nighttime breathlessness (orthopnea).

3. Focus on Oxygen and Ventilation:

   • If the nebulizer helps, continue using it as prescribed.
   • Discuss supplemental oxygen therapy with her doctor if she experiences severe breathlessness.

4. Dietary and Fluid Management:

   • A low-sodium diet can reduce fluid retention.
   • Monitor fluid intake if advised by her doctor.

5. Emergency Preparedness:

   • If her symptoms worsen, like severe breathlessness, confusion, or chest pain, seek emergency care immediately.

Hello Nazrana Ji,

A heart tumour, although rare, requires careful evaluation and treatment by specialists. The best approach depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as your wife’s overall health. Heart tumours are usually either benign (non-cancerous), like myxomas, or malignant (cancerous), like angiosarcomas. Treatment options often include:

1. Surgery is usually the primary treatment for benign tumours, removing the tumour and preventing complications. Cardiac surgeons typically perform these surgeries, and outcomes are generally positive for benign cases.

2. Doctors may sometimes recommend close monitoring if the tumour is small and does not cause symptoms. Medications may also be prescribed to manage symptoms or prevent complications.

3. If the tumour is malignant, treatment may involve a combination of surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy. In some cases, a heart transplant may be considered. Additionally, if fluid buildup in the chest is causing discomfort, doctors may insert tubes to help drain the fluid and relieve symptoms.

We recommend consulting with a cardiac surgeon to discuss the best approach for your wife’s condition.

At HexaHealth, we can help you connect with highly qualified specialists and guide you through the process.