Question 1

I've noticed my resting heart rate has been a bit higher than usual, usually between 90 and 110. Sometimes it goes over 100, although not too often. I'm wondering if this is normal or if I should be concerned? I had an ECHO last month, and it was normal. At what point should I think about this as potentially dangerous arrhythmia?

Accepted Answer

An arrhythmia can be dangerous if it leads to symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, dizziness, or shortness of breath. The frequency of arrhythmia that could be considered dangerous varies depending on the type and underlying cause. In your case, with a resting heart rate consistently between 90-110 and occasionally above 100, it is advisable to monitor it closely. Since your ECHO was normal last month, it is reassuring that there are no structural abnormalities with your heart. However, given the increased resting heart rate, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. In the meantime, you can consider taking a beta-blocker medication like Metoprolol at a low dose of 25mg once daily to help control your heart rate.

Question 2

I'm really worried after my mom's health check-up today. Her blood pressure was really hightwice it was 18090 and the third time was 17090. We're going to get the full health report by Wednesday, but I'm anxious. Do you think she might need to start taking medicine right away?

Accepted Answer

The symptoms you're experiencing, such as lightheadedness, spinning sensation, and vomiting, could be related to various factors. Considering your recent changes in diet and daily workouts, here are a few potential causes:

*Potential Causes*

1. *Low Blood Sugar*: With your new diet, you might be experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), leading to lightheadedness and dizziness.
2. *Dehydration*: Insufficient fluid intake, especially during workouts, can cause dehydration, resulting in dizziness and lightheadedness.
3. *Electrolyte Imbalance*: Your new diet might be lacking essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, or magnesium, which can disrupt your body's balance and cause dizziness.
4. *Inner Ear Issues*: The spinning sensation could be related to inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

*Recommendations*

1. *Consult a Doctor*: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
2. *Monitor Blood Sugar*: If you're experiencing low blood sugar, consider monitoring your blood sugar levels and adjusting your diet accordingly.
3. *Stay Hydrated*: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during and after workouts.
4. *Balance Your Diet*: Ensure you're getting essential electrolytes and nutrients through your diet or consider supplements after consulting your doctor.
5. *Rest and Recovery*: Allow your body time to recover between workouts, and prioritize getting enough sleep.

Question 3

Every time I smoke weed, I start feeling this pain in my left shoulder and arm. It began in early February, and I've been smoking marijuana since January 2016. I know I have generalized anxiety disorder, and I'm anxious about heart attacks because I heard weed can speed up heart rate. I've been to doctors many times and had several EKGs, Cardiac Enzyme Tests, and even a resting Electrocardiogram. They all said my heart's fine, and so did my cardiologist, though I never mentioned my weed use to them. The pain sometimes happens when I'm not high, but it definitely seems worse when I am. I get really in my head about this stuff when I'm high. Im aware that sudden heart attacks from weed are super rare and that lots of people over 50 use it, but I'd still like some advice on how to feel more at ease. I'm a 17-year-old male, not very active, weighing 240 lbs, and my resting heart rate is between 65 and 80 BPM.

Accepted Answer

It sounds like you may be experiencing musculoskeletal pain exacerbated by your anxiety when using marijuana. Given your history of generalized anxiety disorder and the fact that your shoulder and arm pain worsens when you smoke weed, it's important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your symptoms. To help alleviate your symptoms and manage your anxiety, I recommend trying over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for your shoulder and arm pain. Additionally, considering your anxiety, you may benefit from therapy or counseling to address your worries and fears related to using marijuana. In terms of your anxiety about heart issues, it's reassuring that your cardiac tests have come back normal. However, it's essential to consider the impact of marijuana on your symptoms. To address your concerns about heart health while using marijuana, you may want to consider reducing or avoiding its use. It's also crucial to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet, to support your overall well-being. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Remember, taking care of your physical and mental health is essential. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out for support.

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More Cardiology Health Queries

I'm really worried after my mom's health check-up today. Her blood pressure was really hightwice it was 18090 and the third time was 17090. We're going to get the full health report by Wednesday, but I'm anxious. Do you think she might need to start taking medicine right away?

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