Echo results are concerning

Medical Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hi barbell medicine team,

I’ve been given the diagnosis of “extra systoles” by my cardiologist.

I was concerned with the sensation of extra beats during prolonged aerobic (1 hr - 1.5 hr) activity but assumed that to be expected while performing under those circumstances.

I have echo results from two years ago and just recently, which I’d be happy to disclose on the forum. Whatever values have changed have been bolded.

Previous results:

  1. Dimensions

  2. LA 3.5 cm

  3. Aorta 3.5 cm

  4. LVIDd 5.8 cm

  5. LVIDs 2.9 cm

  6. FS 50%

  7. LV EF 66%

  8. Valves

  9. Aortic Opening 2.0 cm

  10. Doppler Velocities

  11. Peak Aortic 0.9 m/sec

  12. Peak LVOT 0.6 m/sec

  13. Mitral E 0.9 m/sec

  14. Mitral A 0.3 m/sec

Most Recent Results:

  1. Dimensions

  2. LA 3 cm

  3. Aorta 3 cm

  4. LVIDd 6 cm

  5. LVIDs 4 cm

  6. FS 33%

  7. LV EF 66%

  8. Valves

  9. Aortic Opening 2.0

  10. Doppler Velocities

  11. Peak Aortic 1.3 m/sec

  12. Peak LVOT 0.8 m/sec

  13. Mitral E 0.7 m/sec

  14. Mitral A 0.4 m/sec

The most recent results showed that my LV is mildly dilated and global systolic LV function is low-normal. This is a concern for cardiomyopathy and needs to be ruled out via Cardiac MRI. I’m only 25 and have no family history of cardiomyopathy. I don’t understand why my EF is so low, even though I’m primarily asymptomatic. I voluntarily train a lot because I enjoy it. Is this enough evidence that I support maladaptive traits by pursuing an exercise program, or are these results consistent with those of someone who does a lot of aerobic activity? Not looking to need a heart transplant in 30 years, just very worried about the situation. Thank you.

2

Hi,

Unfortunately this is well beyond what we’re able to advise you on via the forum. It sounds like you are receiving appropriate evaluation with a cardiac MRI, and there is no reason at this point to suspect that something dramatic like a heart transplant is in your future. These may be benign training-related changes, but the next steps you are undergoing will help to determine this.

3

Thank you for the information & reply