International journal of cardiology
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Comparative Study
Does hospitalization for congestive heart failure occur more frequently in Ramadan: a population-based study (1991-2001).
Over one billion Muslims fast worldwide during the month of Ramadan. Fasting during Ramadan is essentially a radical change in lifestyle for the period of one lunar month, so it is important to see the response of congestive heart failure patients to this change. Our objective in this study is to investigate whether Ramadan fasting has any effect on the number of hospitalization for congestive heart failure (CHF) in a geographically defined population. ⋯ This population-based study demonstrates that no significant difference was found in number of hospitalization for CHF while fasting in Ramadan when compared to the non-fasting months.
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Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a common medical problem and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)-guided heart failure management for outpatients with symptomatic CHF was found to reduce the readmission rate and mortality, but the costs of treatment may provoke concern in the current cost-conscious clinical setting. ⋯ Introduction of BNP measurement in heart failure management may be cost-effective.
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Letter Case Reports
Atrial fibrillation and prominent J (Osborn) waves in critical hypothermia.
The J wave is a deflection that appears on the surface ECG as a late delta wave following the QRS complex. Also known as an Osborn wave, the J wave has been observed in various conditions and diseases. Our case highlights the typical electrocardiographic manifestations of hypothermia including the J deflection and ST segment elevation during atrial fibrillation. Thorough knowledge of these findings is important for prompt diagnosis and treatment of hypothermic states.
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Comparative Study
Effects of sinus rhythm restoration in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation: a clinical, echocardiographic and hormonal study.
The hemodynamic consequences of atrial fibrillation (AF) may lead to impairment of the left ventricular function and a reduction in exercise capacity. Studies on mechanical and neurohormonal remodelling in patients with AF are becoming increasingly important. The results could possibly enhance treatment strategies of these patients. The aim of this study was to assess changes in exercise capacity, echocardiographic findings and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentrations in patients with non-rheumatic persistent AF, before and 30 days after successful cardioversion. ⋯ The restoration of sinus rhythm in patients with persistent AF was associated with a significant improvement in cardiac performance and exercise tolerance 1 month after cardioversion. Such improvement was not observed in the group with unsuccessful cardioversion or with AF recurrence. The plasma ANP concentration in patients with AF was significantly reduced after successful cardioversion and remained stable for a period of 30 days.