Because they were always therefor

which provides a one-time picture of your heart rhythm, is the traditional way to diagnose afib. The trouble is, you may not be in afib the moment you get the EKG.

Fortunately, an event monitor can give your doctor a more accurate assessment.

An event monitor looks like a cell phone. Place in your pocket, and every time you feel symptoms, such as a fluttering heart or lightheadedness, press the device to record your heart’s electrical rate and rhythm as you go about your daily activities.

Wear it round the clock for up to three weeks, except when taking a shower.

Cardiac Ct

A heart attack is a medical emergency. It occurs when plaque—a hard buildup of fat and cholesterol in arteries—breaks open and a blood clot forms that blocks blood flow to your heart. Symptoms can include pain in the center of your chest, in one or both arms and shortness of breath.

A new imaging test, or a cardiac CT scan, can help doctors better predict your personal risk of heart attack before symptoms occur.

Cardiac CT uses computers to create a 3D image of the whole heart to help doctors look at the small vessels that feed your heart to detect coronary artery disease, problems with the aorta, calcium buildup in heart arteries, and problems with heart function.

“Ask for a risk assessment for ischemic heart disease at your next checkup,” Dr. Mieres said.

Your doctor will enter your blood pressure and cholesterol into an online risk assessment calculator.

If your chance of having a heart attack is 10 percent or more in the next decade, a cardiac CT is recommended. On the other hand, if you have symptoms, such as tightness in your chest, you’ll need an immediate EKG to make sure you’re not having a heart attack. ■

Last year, we saw an eclectic mix of new medications gain approval from the Food and Drug Administration. Many of these are highly anticipated by patients and the general public. If you’re interested in learning more about any of these medications, ask your doctor to see if they’re right for you or someone you love.

Quviviq® (daridorexant) Tablets, Rx: This drug is intended for adults with insomnia. It should not be used if you have serious liver problems or if you do not intend to lay in bed for seven hours. Like all other sleep medications on the market, it will leave you feeling a little woozy in the morning so don’t jump out of bed without acclimating. Do not operate machinery or drive either! In clinical studies, people who took Quviviq reported they were able to fall asleep about 30 minutes faster than usual and gain about 35 to 45 minutes of total sleep time compared to their baseline. Never combine this drug with alcohol or other sedatives, and certainly not with hypnotic drugs like alprazolam or zolpidem!

Cibinqo® (Abrocitini) Tablets, Rx: This medication is a JAK inhibitor and it’s useful for people who have atopic dermatitis (sometimes called eczema). I like JAK inhibitors in general, but do not take this medication if you have serious heart problems or a history of blood clots. Common side effects include increased risk of infection, nausea/vomiting, fatigue, hypertension or dizziness.

Eluciremt® (Gadopiclenol) and Vueway® (gadopiclenol) Injections, Rx: These two contrast agents are administered before an MRI, making it easier for doctors to see inside your body. If you are allergic to iodine-based contrast, these two new options are handy to have. Although these drugs might be harmful to the kidneys, these two new agents are supposedly better than the older gadolinium-based agents which is good because I’ve seen the harm done by those older ones!

Dear Pharmacist

BY SUZY COHEN

Omlonti® (Omidenepag) Eye Drops, Rx: These drops treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension, and could certainly be used in conjunction with herbal/vitamin remedies that support eye health. Your eye color may change over months to years, and it’s permanent. Faster lash growth may occur too.

Elahere® (Mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx) Injection, Rx: This medication is used to treat resistant cases of ovarian or fallopian tube cancer (also peritoneal cancer). It may cause neuropathy or eye problems, but it can help people who are resistant to platinum therapy or prior chemotherapy treatments. ■

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