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

So my 76-year-old mom, who's diabetic, has been diagnosed with a triple vessel block and just had an acute anterolateral wall MI. I'm really worried and trying to figure out whether a stent or a bypass would be the better option for her. Could you help me understand the pros and cons of each? I'm kind of at a loss here and would really appreciate your guidance.

Accepted Answer

For a 76-year-old diabetic patient with triple vessel blockage and acute anterolateral wall MI, treatment options include:

Stent Placement

1. Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): Stenting can improve blood flow, but may require multiple procedures.
2. Advantages: Minimally invasive, quicker recovery.
3. Disadvantages: Higher restenosis risk, potential for stent thrombosis.

Bypass Surgery (Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting - CABG)

1. Surgical option: Bypass grafts reroute blood flow around blocked arteries.
2. Advantages: Higher success rate, lower restenosis risk, suitable for complex cases.
3. Disadvantages: Invasive, longer recovery, potential for graft failure.

Question 3

I'm feeling a bit anxious about an angiography procedure I'm considering. Could you tell me what risks are involved? Are there any serious complications I should be aware of? Also, what's the cost estimate for undergoing this procedure?

Accepted Answer

Angiography is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Some potential risks and serious complications of angiography include: - Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used - Bleeding or hematoma at the catheter insertion site - Blood vessel damage or dissection - Blood clots - Stroke or heart attack - Kidney damage from the contrast dye The cost estimate of angiography can vary depending on the location, healthcare provider, and whether it is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. On average, the cost of angiography can range from $500 to $5000 or more. If you are prescribed angiography, make sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

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More Cardiology Health Queries

I'm feeling a bit anxious about an angiography procedure I'm considering. Could you tell me what risks are involved? Are there any serious complications I should be aware of? Also, what's the cost estimate for undergoing this procedure?

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