Why do I need Meds?

Hi All

I was diagnosed with LBBB after a routine ECG at the doctors with no symtoms before the ECG.

Since having the Biventricular pacemaker fitted to re-synchronize my L & R ventricles I have been put on a low dose ACE inhibitor and a low dose Beta blocker, 2.5mg of each.

The Angiogram showed my heart was good in all other aspects so I'm a bit puzzled as to why I need the drugs.

I will be asking at my next visit with the Cardiologist but wondered if anybody else had had the same.

Best wishes to all

Graham

5 Comments

Why Meds

by SMITTY - 2010-10-02 07:10:03

My doctor tells me that ace inhibitors and beta blockers helps my heart do its work with less effort. It will be interesting to hear what your doctor has to say about why he has you taking them.

question it

by Tracey_E - 2010-10-02 07:10:04

If all you have is BBB, I can't think of any reason why you'd need the drugs. But I'm not a dr and I'll do anything to talk my way out of any prescription! :o)

Most drs don't consider having a pm alone reason to need to be on anything. A lot of us are, but it's for secondary problems not the pm itself. Beta blockers will slow down your hr so your heart works less hard, a side effect is lower blood pressure. Ace inibitors help increase cardiac output by narrowing the vessels and increasing bp. Low cardiac output is one reason why you might get a bi-vent pm instead of a regular two lead pm. If you didn't have symptoms, why did they jump to a bi-vent for your first pm? I'm not a dr so take what I say with a grain of salt, but it seems like overkill at a first glance. Was your EF low?

Medicines

by J.B. - 2010-10-02 07:10:21

I would guess your doctor probably believes in wearing a belt and suspenders.

Meds and my EP's explanation

by Nornor - 2010-10-02 09:10:06

Hello Graham

Like you, I have a LBBB, together with fast VT and dilated cardiomyopathy. I received my third device, a bi-ventricular, CRT-Defib, after the on-set of heart failure in December 2008. The CRT has been significantly successful with an increase in EF from 28 to 48. I am, however, still on the drug regime, including a beta blocker and an ACE inhibitor. When I questioned my EP about the need for the drugs, his response was that my heart management program included the CRT and the drugs;the drugs to aid in the strengthening, the remodeling and the output performance of the heart. After ten years with my EP. I have developed a high level of respect for his professional judgements and, thus, have a great deal of confidence in his advice and recommendations. Although I spend a lot of time reading about my conditions and asking numerous questions at my consultations, I do not have medical training and, therefore, I am prepared to leave my heart management recommendations to my medicos.

I hope that you come away from your next consultation feeling confident with your doctor's explanations and his answers to your questions.

Take care. All the best,

Neville (Australia)



Why Meds

by Baz - 2010-10-11 03:10:42


Thank you all for taking the time to reply it's very much appreciated.

Hi TraceyE, My EF was pretty high compared to some, it was 45 to 50. I think if it wasn't for some rhythm irregularities I may not of had the PM just yet.

Hi Neville, Your post has helped me to think more clearly about the Meds. The low dose is probably is just a precaustion as JB says.


Graham

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