Question 1

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.

Question 2

Is there a difference in total lipid profile results when a test is done fasting versus non-fasting? A week ago, I got my lipid profile checked and all the parameters were within the range. But after taking another blood test post-meal seven days later, the values were outside the desired range. Could you guide me on whether fasting or non-fasting results are more accurate?

Accepted Answer

There won't be much variation, ideally fasting results and considered to be valid, In your scenario, that could be lab error also, visit your doctor for evaluation and appropriate management

Question 3

I recently got my dad an ECG because he's been having some mild blood pressure issues and he's on 2.5mg Amlodipine tablets. When I checked the report, I noticed it mentioned sinus tachycardia, abnormal left axis deviation, and left anterior fascicular block. I know we're seeing the doctor tomorrow, but I'm a bit anxious and can't wait until then. Any idea if this sounds alright or if there's anything I should be worried about?

Accepted Answer

Sinus tachycardia, abnormal left axis deviation, and left anterior fascicular block are findings that may indicate some issues with the heart's electrical activity. Sinus tachycardia refers to a faster than normal heart rate, while abnormal left axis deviation and left anterior fascicular block are specific patterns seen on an ECG that may suggest certain heart conditions. Considering your father's mild blood pressure and current medication of 2.5mg amlip tablets, it's important to discuss these ECG findings with the doctor. They will be able to provide a thorough evaluation and recommend any necessary treatment or further testing. In the meantime, it would be advisable to ensure your father continues taking his prescribed medication as directed. Additionally, monitoring his blood pressure regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can also be beneficial for his overall heart health.

I've been having this really hard time breathing and there's this weird feeling in my chest where my heart is. Sometimes, it feels like I'm about to take my last breath, and it's really scary. I have no clue what's causing all this. Could you help me figure out what's going on?

consult cadiologist if all are reports are normal for heart then it can be asthma also so do a spirometry

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