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Question:
Several tests in the past have been negative, but I'm diabetic and have symptoms. Should I have more tests?
Six years back on regular check-up, my treadmill test came positive. I went for thallium stress test immediately. It came negative. After three years thallium repeated and again it came negative. One year after, I went for CT angio 64 slide, and it came clear. It's been two years since I did any tests. I am diabetic. Do you suggest to go for any test as I find now day pounding heart after meals or even after moderate alcohol intake?
submitted Mahesh from United Arab Emirates on 10/30/2011
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiologist, Jorge F. Guttin, MD
Even though all of your stress tests have been normal, diabetes is one of the strong risks for developing coronary artery disease. I do not know if you have any other important cardiac risks, e.g., family history, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking and age, among others. Thus, I suggest you visit your cardiologist to learn what type of irregular heartbeats (pounding) you are having, and check all other possible risks. Probably another stress test is indicated, which may also help in determining the origin of your palpitations.
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Updated November 2011
