First, Treat Thyroid Problem
Reader: I went to my doctor because of a fast heart rate. After she checked my heart, she ordered some blood tests, which showed my thyroid level to be too high. She gave me some heart medicine, and now she wants me to go to the hospital to have my thyroid radiated. Will I still need heart medicine afterwards?

Dr. Zipes: An elevated thyroid level can be responsible for some fast heartbeats, particularly atrial fibrillation. In many (but not all) patients, restoration of normal thyroid function can eliminate the rapid heartbeat without the need for drugs. You need to have your thyroid treated regardless, and determine the need for medicines afterwards.

Need for Defibrillator Therapy
Reader: I had a heart attack last month. The doctor said I needed a defibrillator because my heart was weak. I thought those were only for people with fast heartbeats. I haven't had any, or any dizzy spells. Do I really need it?

Dr. Zipes: The defibrillator has been shown to improve survival in many patients who have had a heart attack and "weak" hearts, even without any symptoms. The reason is that the weak heart is prone to developing life-threatening rapid heartbeats that the defibrillator can stop.

Worrisome Dizzy Spells
Reader: I keep having dizzy spells. It used to happen when I got up too fast, but now I have them anytime. I passed out once and broke my nose. My doctor put a heart monitor on me, but it didn't show anything. He put me on a treadmill, but that looked all right. I am afraid to be alone. What can I do?

Dr. Zipes: Treating dizzy spells can be very difficult in some instances because there can be many causes. An abnormal heart rhythm is often the cause and can be diagnosed by special EKG equipment that can record the heartbeat during a dizzy spell. You need a careful evaluation by an experienced doctor to determine the cause.