Are Back And Chest Pain In A Diabetes Patient A Serious Concern?

Posted on Wed, 13 Jun 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 Answered on

Thu, 6 May 2021 Last reviewed on

Question : I am looking for an advice on my father's ECG reports. He is 59 years old and a diabetes patient. While returning from office yesterday evening, he realized his back and chest were paining. He asked my mom to take him to the hospital. The emergency doctor admitted him and immediately went for ECG. Two consecutive ECG reports were taken. Both the reports say everything is normal except high sugar level. I am worried thinking this isn't a heart problem as he is diabetic, as well. ECG reports attached. Looking for an expert advice. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Sagar Makode (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Ecg is having borderline changes, needs further tests

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through both the ecgs. There is borderline st segment elevation in inferior leads and also in V6. There is a possibility of inferior wall myocardial infarction, form of heart attack. Since ecg is not clear cut showing changes of heart attack, he ll need further tests like CKMB, troponin test urgently. Also, echo will show changes of heart attack, so should be done as soon as possible. He being diabetic, may not get severe pain.
So overall, there are borderline changes raising a possibility of heart attack so get the tests I mentioned for confirmation, and if there are any changes on above tests then needs angiography.
Hope this helps you and get back if you have any doubts.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Sagar Makode (5 hours later)

Hello Doctor,
Thanks much for your prompt response. I will surely get the CK MB, Troponin, and Echo tests done, at the earliest.

Could you please advise which one of the CK MB and TROPONIN tests, should I go for?

1) CPK-MB
2) CPK-MB MASS
3) CPK; CREATINE KINASE
4) CPK ISOENZYME ELECTROPHORESIS

1) TROPONIN - T HIGH SENSITIVE
2) TROPONIN - I HIGH SENSITIVE (hsTnI)

Regards

Answered by Dr. Sagar Makode (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Cpk MB and troponin T or I

Detailed Answer:
1. CPK MB and troponin either of two is fine troponin T or I whichever is available. All the best.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy