Can a treated ASD cause palpitations and dizziness in COPD?

Question

Hi doctor,

I need some general information about my symptoms in relation to my medical history. I have COPD, and I underwent heart surgery 35 years ago to close an atrial septal defect (ASD) on the left side and a partial anomalous pulmonary vein. One anomalous pulmonary vein is still present. Lately, I have been experiencing palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, a heavy chest, and dizziness.

I am currently using Ventolin and Symbicort for my COPD and have been monitoring my heart with the CardioSecur device. Can you provide some insight into these symptoms? Will you be able to interpret a 15-lead ECG?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for writing, and I understand your concern.

After carefully examining your ECG (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), I noticed deep T-wave inversions in the anterior and lateral parts of the heart, which could indicate heart enlargement or ischemic changes. Given your history of COPD (chronic pulmonary obstructive disease) and higher blood pressure, I recommend that you undergo echocardiography to rule out any structural or new changes in the heart.

In COPD, pulmonary vascular pressures can be increased, leading to similar symptoms of palpitations and dizziness.

Regarding your use of Ventolin (Salbutamol sulfate), how frequently are you taking it? It is important to note that Ventolin may cause palpitations and heaviness in some individuals.

Hope this information helps you,

Feel free to ask further queries,

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If your oxygen saturation is getting low post-exertion, then it is likely due to COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), which is causing decompensation, but at the same time, cardiac pressures, valves, and ejection fraction should be taken into account to rule out cardiac pathology. Your primary care physician can provide you with heart rate control medication, with anti-anginal drugs to control this situation.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.