Confused
Hi. I'm a 65 year old male and I was told after an ekg that I have an output ratio of only 47%. Received a cardiac cath and was told I have NO blockages, but I do have Afib and PVC. I often feel a fluttering in my chest. To complicate matters, I'm in substantial back/chest pain most of the time.
They told me to return to my cardiologist in three months. No meds, diet instructions, or exercise advice. Is this normal? It's frightening to know I have the condition, yet not knowing what to do about it. Last thing I ever want is a stroke. Any info would be very appreciated.
Hi
, thank you so much for sharing with us. It makes perfect sense to me that you would be confused. Are you able to get a second opinion? Sometimes that can help clarify the situation. Please keep us posted and wishing you all the best. - John M. (Heart-Failure.net Team) 
Hi. Thank you for posting how you are doing here, along with your great questions. First off, I am glad to hear that your cath showed that you have "NO blockages." That is certainly good to hear, and must give you a certain amount of relief. That said, I will be honest with you. I do EKGs for a living, and am not sure what an output ratio is. And based on the other concerns that you have, I would think that your doctor owes you a better explanation of your condition and what you should do about it. And I also think it is concerning that you are experiencing "substantial back/chest pain." I would think your doctor would want to know about this. It may be a good idea to contact your physician either by phone or email. And you can cut and past your comment as noted above, as you worded it well here. What do you think? John. heart-failure.net community moderator.
