How can a blockage in the heart be detected?

Question

Hello doctor,

I wanted to talk to you to see if you think I have anything to worry about. My blood pressure was good (112/69 mmHg), and my cholesterol level was 141 mg/dL. I believe my triglycerides were 76 mg/dL. My kidney and liver functions were great. The EKG came back within normal limits, but there was one mark that had changed since the last time my doctor checked it. She mentioned that it is the lead placed on the breast, which can sometimes give incorrect readings due to breast tissue.

This is on the breast where I had a lumpectomy. She repeated the test, and the reading was slightly flatter but still noticeable. As a result, I need to get an echocardiogram and a treadmill test. Additionally, she is arranging for a calcium score test. She said that if I was not moving to another city next week, she would have waited until my next appointment in six months to see if the issue persisted. However, since I am moving soon and do not yet have a doctor in the new location, she recommended completing the tests here.

I have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, breast cancer, and pulmonary embolisms in both lungs. My cardiologist said the change was only in one lead, not the entire EKG. Should I be concerned about a potential blockage?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the ECG (electrocardiogram) you provided (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity. It shows nonspecific ST-T changes in leads III and V1 to V3. Nonspecific changes typically do not indicate ischemia. However, given your history of high blood pressure and diabetes, I recommend undergoing a 2D echocardiogram and a treadmill test (TMT) to rule out any ischemic causes.

Regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Ischemia is a decrease in blood supply to an organ. In this case, the organ is the heart. Ischemia occurs when there are blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

I hope this helps you.