borderline QT

[Steven07]

hi I recently got diagnosed with borderline qt. I’ve recently had a 7 day heart monitor fitted plus an echocardiogram scan. Both of which I’ve not received any results back or any further follow up appointment yet. This all stemmed from a loss of consciousness back In the summer (only ever happened the once)and the ecg showed the qt. I feel like I’m getting no answers and no reassurance. I’ve been told my antidepressants are likely the cause (escitalopram for past 17 years) but to continue with them.

my life feels like it’s come to a stop I’m too scared to do anything (socialising,activities, occasional social drink etc).

My main problem now is my anxiety is through the floor which subsequently causes chest aches pains etc then I get into a vicious circle of is this anxiety or something to do with my heart??

Any encouragement or advise would be really appreciated right now.

thanks for reading

[Popepaul]

I am not a medic (I was Psyche nurse for many years). Escitalpram is associated with increased risk of QT elongation. Sertraline is sometimes prescribed for patients with long QT. I do wonder why you have been on an antidepressant for such a long period of time. Psychotropic medications are not without risk. Hopefully the heart monitor and EKG will indicate that you have no arrhythmia or structural heart problems. Take up yoga, mindfulness box breathing etc to deal with your anxiety. Good luck.

[Rabbit55 in reply to Popepaul]

Hello Steven, test done for echocardiograms at Hospitals can take a while to come back. Your anxiety (mine as well), probably is not helping you. It would help seeing the cardio Nurse and talk through things. Kind regards Rabbit 55.