Understanding Septal Infarct: My Experience
As a generally fit and healthy 35-year-old man, I recently found myself in the emergency room due to experiencing sudden vision impairment along with a sensation of tightness in my chest; upon my arrival, my heart rate was recorded at 120 beats per minute. After approximately ten hours, I was discharged without being admitted. During my visit, the medical staff conducted several examinations: they took blood samples, performed a head CT scan, assessed for potential retinal detachment, and conducted an EKG. Ultimately, I was referred to an ophthalmologist, with the suspicion of an ocular migraine being the likely cause, although this would be my first experience of such. Two days post-discharge, I accessed my EKG results online. These results, which had undergone verification and approval by a hospital cardiologist, indicated two potential issues: 1. there might be left atrial enlargement, and 2. a septal infarct of undetermined age. I reached out to the emergency room for clarification, where a nurse relayed a message from the physician advising me to consult my primary care physician for a referral to a cardiologist. While they stated that everything seemed normal to them, they were unable to address my specific concerns since they were not the doctors on duty during my visit. Additionally, they informed me that they did not possess my prior EKG from 2024, which was conducted at a different medical facility, making it impossible to compare my current results directly. I noted that the V2 lead on my previous EKG appeared significantly different—it is now inverted. This leaves me questioning why the cardiologist would confirm these abnormalities while the emergency physician deemed them standard. Isn’t this a contradiction? Moreover, without access to my previous results for context, I am left wondering: should I indeed pursue a consultation with a cardiologist?
Answers (1)
3/22/2025, 11:40:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've had quite a concerning experience with your health, and I want to acknowledge the stress that comes with unexplained symptoms and mixed messages from healthcare providers. Let’s break down the key points from your situation and what you can do next.
Main Points:
- Your EKG shows potential left atrial enlargement and a septal infarct.
- There’s uncertainty about the significance of these findings and whether they warrant immediate concern or further evaluation.
- You are considering whether to see a cardiologist for follow-up.
Explanation:
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Left Atrial Enlargement can sometimes indicate potential heart conditions, especially if there are accompanying symptoms or factors like high blood pressure or heart rhythm issues.
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Septal Infarct refers to damage in the heart’s septum, which separates the left and right sides of the heart. The “age” of the infarct can suggest whether it's something recent or older, but without prior images to compare, it’s harder to interpret.
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The differing interpretations between the emergency department and cardiologist are not necessarily contradictions; different doctors may weigh risks and previous medical history differently. Emergency staff often focus on immediate life-threatening conditions primarily.
Next Steps:
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Schedule a Consultation with a Cardiologist: This is essential given the findings on your EKG. The cardiologist can provide a thorough evaluation, which may include additional tests to understand the significance of the left atrial enlargement and any past infarctions.
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Obtain Your Previous EKG Records: Request your EKG from 2024, as having that data can help the cardiologist make a more informed assessment and compare it with your current results.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document any symptoms you experience, including their frequency and intensity. This information can help your cardiologist understand your situation better.
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Follow General Heart Health Practices:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Engage in regular physical activity appropriate to your fitness level.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or moderate exercise.
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Stay Observant: If you notice new or worsening symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or any alarming changes, these should be reported to your healthcare provider promptly.
Taking these steps should help clarify your situation and provide you with peace of mind. Please feel free to reach out if you need further guidance or support.
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