Question 1

Which food reduces blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Low salt intake, less processed foods, consuming more whole grains and fresh fruits & vegetables

Question 2

I've been using my MI band to keep track of my heart rate while I'm exercising and working out. Lately, I've noticed that my heart rate sometimes drops suddenly and steeply according to the fitness tracker. I've got a specific heart rate record from one of my workouts attached here. Should I be worried about this? What might be causing these changes, and are there other symptoms I should be on the lookout for?

Accepted Answer

Sudden and steep drops in heart rate during exercise can be concerning. It is important to rule out any underlying heart conditions. The probable causes could include dehydration, overexertion, medication side effects, or an underlying heart rhythm disorder. Other symptoms to watch out for may include dizziness, lightheadedness, chest pain, or shortness of breath. I recommend consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.

Question 3

I've been having some discomfort in my left arm, mostly around the shoulder joint and it also reaches down to my wrist. It's not super intense, but the pain is noticeable. Occasionally, I also experience a chest pain on the left side that comes and goes, but it usually feels better after I burp a few times. Does anyone know if this could be a heart issue, just gastric pain, or maybe something else? I did get a general health check-up last year, including heart tests like ECG, chest X-ray, and treadmill test, and everything was normal back then. Any thoughts on what this might be?

Accepted Answer

Immediate Actions*

1. *Schedule a doctor's appointment*: Book an appointment with your primary care physician or a hematologist (blood specialist) to discuss your symptoms.
2. *Keep a bruising journal*: Document the location, size, and duration of each bruise to help your doctor identify patterns.

*Potential Causes*

1. *Bleeding disorders*: Conditions like thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or von Willebrand disease may cause easy bruising.
2. *Vitamin deficiencies*: Lack of vitamins like C, K, or B12 can affect blood clotting and lead to bruising.
3. *Autoimmune disorders*: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause bruising and joint pain.
4. *Medication side effects*: Certain medications, such as blood thinners or steroids, can increase bruising.

*Tests and Examinations*

1. *Complete Blood Count (CBC)*: To check for bleeding disorders or vitamin deficiencies.
2. *Blood clotting tests*: To assess your blood's ability to clot.
3. *Physical examination*: To check for signs of autoimmune disorders or other underlying conditions.

*What to Expect*

1. *Discussion of symptoms*: Share your bruising journal and discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
2. *Diagnostic tests*: Undergo tests to determine the underlying cause of your bruising.
3. *Treatment plan*: Based on the diagnosis, your doctor will create a treatment plan to address the underlying condition.

Visit your Physician for appropriate management

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