Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

How Serious Is Chemo-heart Along With Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

I had Non-Hodgkin's Lymohoma last year. After staying extremely tired, an echo was done. I received the news today that I have chemo-heart. Apparently my heart is pumping at 40 percent. I will see a cardiologist in four days. Can you explain to me just how dangerous this is? Are there certain questions I need to ask the cardiologist? Is this reversible?
Mon, 23 Dec 2013
Report Abuse
Emergency Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
We measure the heart's function by an index called 'Ejection Fraction'(EF). A normal heart has an EF of 50-60. Chemotherapy drugs esp. Doxorubicin have effect on heart muscles. Unfortunately these effects are permanent and irreversible. Your condition is dangerous as your EF has fallen below 35%.You need to stop your current chemo drugs and switch to alternate drugs. When you see your cardiologist you need to ask him about getting on heart failure drugs and a test called nuclear scintigraphy. You need to get an ECHO done for EF calculation. Ask about diet modification esp salt and water intake
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Recent questions on Heart failure


Loading Online Doctors....
How Serious Is Chemo-heart Along With Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

We measure the heart s function by an index called Ejection Fraction (EF). A normal heart has an EF of 50-60. Chemotherapy drugs esp. Doxorubicin have effect on heart muscles. Unfortunately these effects are permanent and irreversible. Your condition is dangerous as your EF has fallen below 35%.You need to stop your current chemo drugs and switch to alternate drugs. When you see your cardiologist you need to ask him about getting on heart failure drugs and a test called nuclear scintigraphy. You need to get an ECHO done for EF calculation. Ask about diet modification esp salt and water intake