Seeking Guidance: Concerns Over Prolonged QT Interval
I am a 30-year-old female, Caucasian, standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing 400 pounds. I am preparing for weight loss surgery later this year. Last night, I experienced a racing heartbeat and decided to visit the emergency room, where they performed an ECG that indicated a prolonged QT interval. Unfortunately, I wasn’t informed about the findings, and I was discharged. Concerned, I contacted the facility to discuss the results with my physician. She expressed her opinion that it was not actually prolonged but recommended that I return for a repeat ECG. After undergoing the second test, the results came back normal. I am feeling extremely anxious and uncertain about what to do next. Recently, I began taking Lexapro after being on Celexa for several years, and the ECG that showed the prolonged QT was conducted just two days after starting Lexapro. Throughout my life, I have undergone numerous ECGs without any previous issues. Now, I find myself in a state of fear and confusion. I have reached out to my cardiologist and am awaiting a response.
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 5:10:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you've been through a lot recently, and it's completely normal to feel anxious about health concerns, especially regarding your heart. Let's break down your situation regarding the prolonged QT interval and how you can proceed from here.
Key Points:
- Prolonged QT Interval: This can sometimes occur for various reasons, including medication changes and electrolyte imbalances, but your follow-up ECG showed normal results.
- Medication Considerations: Lexapro (escitalopram) is sometimes associated with heart rhythm changes, but it's critical to monitor how you feel and any side effects.
- Anxiety Management: Addressing your anxiety is important, especially as you prepare for surgery.
Explanation:
A prolonged QT interval can be concerning because it may lead to serious heart rhythm issues; however, since your follow-up ECG was normal, it suggests that there is unlikely to be an ongoing problem. Medication changes, especially involving antidepressants like Lexapro, may cause transient changes in your heart's electrical activity. The best step now is to discuss any symptoms you might have or continue to feel with your cardiologist.
Next Steps:
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Keep Communication Open: Continue waiting for the response from your cardiologist and prepare any questions you have about the ECG results and your symptoms.
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes in your heart rate, episodes of palpitations, or other symptoms. Write these down to share with your healthcare provider.
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Medication Review: Discuss with your doctor if you feel that Lexapro is contributing to your anxiety or any new symptoms. They may adjust your treatment if necessary.
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Manage Anxiety: Consider self-help strategies such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or light physical activities to help reduce anxiety about your health. Engaging in supportive talk with friends or a counselor might also be beneficial.
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Stay Informed: Research about QT prolongation and your medications through reputable sources, but try to avoid excessive internet searches that may increase your anxiety.
Taking these steps should help you feel more in control and can provide clarity as you continue through this process. Your health matters, and staying informed and proactive is key. Let me know if you have more specific questions or need further assistance!
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