TMBRA - Rider Board

[Anonymous]

Hello Doc,

5 years ago I had a ECG that was normal, I was also 255 pounds and 5'10". Since then I have been road and MTB biking, I raced MTBs in the fall of 2003 and 2004, and have done the last 3 MS150s. My weight is down to 210.

I had a physical on friday that was normal except of the ECG. It showed "Possible old anterior infarction" and my doctor refered me to a cardiologist. Appt is Tuesday. I do not remember any incidents of severe chest pains and when I ride I usually get my heartrate to about 150 or so. Could I have been walking/riding with this and not known about it? How worried should I be, and how will this affect my biking???

Thanks

[The Bike Doc]

Redbaron:

It is possible that the EKG was over read by the interpretation program. Your cardiologist will review your EKG and possibly do an echocardiogram to look at your heart wall function to see if there is any evidence of an old myocardial infarction. If you did have an asymptomatic heart attack ,your improved aerobic fitness likely saved your life. Your loosing weight and regular aerobic exercise is to your heart's benefit. It is likely your cardiologist will encourage you to continue you activity. Let us know what the cardiologist has to say.

Thanks,
_________________
Paul K. Nolan, MD
AKA: The Bike Doc

[Anonymous]

Well, Turns out the EKG was over read!! After an heart sonagram and a 12 lead stress test the cardiologist said all was well... Until I got the bill!!! It was really weird how your mind can play tricks on you I honestly felt physically horrible until the cardiologist gave me a clean bill of health then almost immediately felt fine.. Went to my Wednesday spin the next day..

Thanks for the reply doc!!

[The Bike Doc]

Redbaron:

I am glad to hear it was and over read. Thanks for the update and ride hard.
_________________
Paul K. Nolan, MD
AKA: The Bike Doc