Abnormal EKG

[llswanson]

My 14 year old son was having shortness of breath and dizzy spells. I took him to our family doctor and he did and EKG. It had some abnormalties (incomplete right bundle branch block and extensive ST's) are two things I remember. He also has a mild heart murmur. He recommends we see a ped cardiologist. We have an appt Monday at MUSC in Charleston, SC. Today he was feeling really bad and I took him back in. His blood pressure was 82/48 and he was dehydrated. His bp went up before we left the office. He is an avid soccer player and he just started kicking for his high school team. Any advice would be appreciated.

[Sarah]

I am shocked the doctor didn't tell you to keep him out of soccer until he's seen by the cardiologist.

Dehydration hits HCMers very hard. Your son needs to keep his water intake high. Sports drinks usually have too much sugar, so look for SmartWater (that is the name) that is just water with electrolytes or Pedialyte.

Also keep him out of soccer until he's had a full work up with the cardiologist and you know what you are dealing with.

Good luck and keep us posted. I also recommend calling Lisa for doctor recos.

S

[Reenie]

Hi. I'm glad you've found us. I'm from Sumter and have had some experience with MUSC myself. I suggest you call Lisa Salberg at 973-983-7429 tomorrow and talk to her about getting a good doctor.

I agree with Sarah about the soccer. Your son should not play soccer until you find out what's going on here. If he does have HCM, sounds like you don't know for sure yet, he definitely shouldn't be playing competitive sports. Although most with HCM live full long lives, some have serious consequences when they exert themselves heavily.

Please let us know how his appointment goes.

Reenie

[llswanson]

The doctor did tell us no physical activity until he is checked by a cardiologist. My son is very upset about that. The family doctor mentioned HCM as a possibility. Do you know what usually shows up on a EKG to make them think that? Thanks for the responses

[Lisa Salberg]

If the doc mentioned HCM it is possible he saw somthing on the EKG to tip him off. When are you getting the echo?
In the mean time keep him well hydrated, no sports and make sure he tells you if he feels bad. Should he not feel well over the weekend get him to an ER, although I doubt that will happen - just do not try to minimize this as it may be something serious.

If there is a diagnosis be very cautious in the treatment options offered - take your time and do your homework prior to making a choice.

We are hear if you need us -just call.
Lisa

[Reenie]

Some people with HCM, although not all, have EKG's that look like they've had heart attacks when they haven't. HCM is primarily a problem with the heart muscle but it can affect the electrical conduction in the heart too. We're here if you have questions or concerns, or if you just want to vent. If you son is indeed diagnosed with HCM we also have a forum here just for teens and young adults. He might want to come here to talk to others who know what he's going through.

Reenie

[llswanson]

His appointment is Monday at 8:45. At least we don't have to wait much longer to know something. Thanks for the support.

[Aimee]

The EKG may have what is known as "Q waves" (downward deflections just before the QRS or the tall spike in laymens terms) and also prolonged ST segments. (the little bump after the tall spike is longer than normal) Anyway it is important that you ask questions and write down what they tell you. Write down any questions or ask about the symptoms he has and what to look for and what to do when he feels a certain way. No question is a "foolish question" and you need to ask. Most heart people love to teach also. If you don't understand the answer tell them and have them explain it again or draw a picture for you. I did hearts for my nursing ... so ask . Knowledge is power. You can't help him stay healthy if you don't know. Good luck and keep us posted.

[llswanson]

He had his appointment yesterday and I'm pleased to say everything with his heart is fine. He has low blood pressure which was causing his dizziness and the deyhradtion was contributing as well. He was released to play all sports. Thanks for your comments and concerns.

[Reenie]

I'm glad to hear that your son is fine. Tell him to pump up the Gatorade before he plays and that should help.

Reenie

[Aimee]

Blessings on your household ..what a good report !!