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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Are ECG Readings Detecting Abnormal ST T Waves And Inferior Ischemia Reliable?

I had an ECG which detected abnormal ST-T waves and a second ECG read Left Vent Strain and Inferior Ischemia. Can these readings be due to poorly placed ECG electron pads by the nurse who took the ECG? I am a middle distance runner with low blood pressure, low cholesterol and a normal echocardiogram. I do however get extremely nervous during routine medical checks for my work. Thank you.
Mon, 30 Mar 2015
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
The ECG results indicating such things are usually reliable. However, people with "athletic hearts" will often have abnormal ECGs that give the appearance of ischemia. The question then becomes, is this due to an athletic heart or true ischemia. Unfortunately sometimes the only way to be sure is to have a stress test with imaging. An echocardiogram does not show ischemia (unless a stress test is done at the same time), although it might show an athletic heart. The ECG results would not be caused by bad placement of leads. Depending on your age and other risk factors, you might need to get a stress imaging study. Although it sounds like you are low risk. Double check with your doctor if you need that. S/he knows you best. Hope this helps.
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Are ECG Readings Detecting Abnormal ST T Waves And Inferior Ischemia Reliable?

The ECG results indicating such things are usually reliable. However, people with athletic hearts will often have abnormal ECGs that give the appearance of ischemia. The question then becomes, is this due to an athletic heart or true ischemia. Unfortunately sometimes the only way to be sure is to have a stress test with imaging. An echocardiogram does not show ischemia (unless a stress test is done at the same time), although it might show an athletic heart. The ECG results would not be caused by bad placement of leads. Depending on your age and other risk factors, you might need to get a stress imaging study. Although it sounds like you are low risk. Double check with your doctor if you need that. S/he knows you best. Hope this helps.