What are the causes of shortness of breath?

Question

Hello doctor,

I went to the ER due to shortness of breath. I have panic disorder and hypochondria. My doctor performed an EKG and released me, saying it was benign. I noticed my QTc was 470. Is that normal? She mentioned a benign ST elevation. I am feeling very nervous.

Please help me. Is this EKG normal? Do I have a prolonged QT?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

No, it is not a long QT (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Manually, the QTc is fine. There are S waves in the lateral leads, suggesting some conduction delay and early stages of the right bundle branch block (RBBB), which can also be seen normally in some individuals and is more common in athletes. At present, there are minor changes in the ECG, which are normal and do not suggest any particular abnormalities.

However, you may need an echocardiogram if clinically indicated, such as if you experience consistent shortness of breath on exertion rather than a panic attack, or if you have any other symptoms suggestive of heart disease. Overall, this should be considered benign.

Thanks and regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

That is great. Yes, there are RBBB changes and a nonsignificant ST elevation due to the RBBB. This elevation is not significant at all.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.