Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] My cardiovascular doctor had me wear a monitor for 4-5 days; the results were that my heart was stopping for up to 3 seconds. My symptoms are sporadic beginning in the breast area a quick rush through my throat into my head, causing me to be lightheaded- not enough to feel faint. This rush seems to occur when inactive. I m 79 years of age, do not take any medication at all; very active physically lifting light weights 2 days a week and racewalk 3 days a week( racewalking is an activity similar to running). I ve was a former competitive racewalker! I m not over-weigh (6 1 - 175 lbs); eat very well and take vitamin & mineral supplements. I ve always had average blood pressure with a resting heart rate of high 40 s /low 50 s. I had the flu 3-4 months age and experienced as one of the symptoms as previously explained. My doctor says that he cannot rule out that the flu caused the problem. This symptom has increased in frequency since I got over the flu. He wants me to have a pacemaker inserted. I would appreciate comments.
[|AI|]  Hi, Thank you for your question.Sometimes flu can be associated with inflammation of the sac around the heart, but that goes away with time. As you have mentioned that you had a monitor for 4 to 5 days which showed that your heart was stopping this means that you have a problem in the electrical conduction of your heart. With pacemaker the electrical conduction of your heart will be optimal, and you will not have the symptoms that you have described. If I was your treating physician I would have also advised you the same as pause in heart beat can result in light-headedness and even loss of consciousness which can be life-threatening. I recommend you to follow the advice of your physician. Wishing you good health. If you have any further questions please feel free to contact me. Best regards.