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What Causes Pain And Muscle Spasm In Upper Body In A High BP Patient?
Question: I contacted you a few days ago because I've been experiencing palpitations for about two years; these have been occurring with greater regularity, and, on one recent occasion, I though that I was going to pass out. I contacted you, and, following the advice of one of your doctors, I saw a cardiologist two days ago, and wore an ekg monitor for 24 hours. I'll get the results in two days. In the meantime, I'd like to be a little more specific concerning my medical history and what my other symptoms have been.
As I explained in my previous email, I have high blood pressure and borderline type 2 diabetes. Since beginning medication about 3 years ago, both have been well under control. I recently had blood tests for the diabetes, cholesterol, thyroid, prostate, liver and kidney function: my GP said that all the tests showed a perfect result. However, for a while now, in addition to the palpitations, I've been experiencing various aches and pains in my upper body,(in fact, these started about four years ago), muscle spasms in various parts of my upper body, an occasional muscular pain when I move my arms, and dryness in my mouth. Bowel movements, although not difficult, occur with less regularity (once every 2-3 days). I don't have chest pains or shortness of breath, and sleep well.
Do you think that at least some of the symptoms described above could be a result of stress? I live in Saudi Arabia, which is a fairly harsh environment with very little in terms of social life. I haven't drunk alcohol in 9 months, walk a fair amount and eat healthily, but smoke about 30 cigarettes per day. I feel extremely anxious about the palpitations, especially when combined with the dizzy feeling I experienced. I'd like some further feedback in the light of what I've said above. Any comments will be much appreciated. Thank you.
As I explained in my previous email, I have high blood pressure and borderline type 2 diabetes. Since beginning medication about 3 years ago, both have been well under control. I recently had blood tests for the diabetes, cholesterol, thyroid, prostate, liver and kidney function: my GP said that all the tests showed a perfect result. However, for a while now, in addition to the palpitations, I've been experiencing various aches and pains in my upper body,(in fact, these started about four years ago), muscle spasms in various parts of my upper body, an occasional muscular pain when I move my arms, and dryness in my mouth. Bowel movements, although not difficult, occur with less regularity (once every 2-3 days). I don't have chest pains or shortness of breath, and sleep well.
Do you think that at least some of the symptoms described above could be a result of stress? I live in Saudi Arabia, which is a fairly harsh environment with very little in terms of social life. I haven't drunk alcohol in 9 months, walk a fair amount and eat healthily, but smoke about 30 cigarettes per day. I feel extremely anxious about the palpitations, especially when combined with the dizzy feeling I experienced. I'd like some further feedback in the light of what I've said above. Any comments will be much appreciated. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome back on HCM!
I carefully reviewed your recent medical history and would explain that your additional complaints (migrating body aches and pains) do not seem to be related to any cardiac issue.
As all the performed medical tests have resulted normal, a probable reason of your clinical symptomatology may be the adverse influence of the extreme physical environment (a dry and too hot climate).
This external influence may lead to dehydration (excess body fluids loss) and subsequent increased overall body stress. Your dry mouth, migrating body discomfort and bowel movements confirm the above alternative.
Some adverse implications rely also on diabetes influence.
In addition, excessive smoking exacerbates the increased mental and physical alertness, deteriorating further your clinical conditions.
In such case, I recommend following a compatible life-style with your living environment (light clothing, taking plenty of fluids, avoiding smoking).
I would be curious to review your Holter monitoring results for a second professional opinion.
In case of any further uncertainties, feel free to ask me again.
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome back on HCM!
I carefully reviewed your recent medical history and would explain that your additional complaints (migrating body aches and pains) do not seem to be related to any cardiac issue.
As all the performed medical tests have resulted normal, a probable reason of your clinical symptomatology may be the adverse influence of the extreme physical environment (a dry and too hot climate).
This external influence may lead to dehydration (excess body fluids loss) and subsequent increased overall body stress. Your dry mouth, migrating body discomfort and bowel movements confirm the above alternative.
Some adverse implications rely also on diabetes influence.
In addition, excessive smoking exacerbates the increased mental and physical alertness, deteriorating further your clinical conditions.
In such case, I recommend following a compatible life-style with your living environment (light clothing, taking plenty of fluids, avoiding smoking).
I would be curious to review your Holter monitoring results for a second professional opinion.
In case of any further uncertainties, feel free to ask me again.
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Dear Dr. Sharka,
Many thanks for your comments: they've given me some reassurance. I'll contact you again to let you know how the ekg results were. I'd meant to add that I'll also have some pulmonary tests within the next few days.
Once again, many thanks.
Regards,
XXXXXXX
Many thanks for your comments: they've given me some reassurance. I'll contact you again to let you know how the ekg results were. I'd meant to add that I'll also have some pulmonary tests within the next few days.
Once again, many thanks.
Regards,
XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
You are welcome!
Detailed Answer:
Hello again, dear David!
I would be glad to review your medical tests (including pulmonary ones).
You can contact me directly whenever they (tests) become available.
Wishing you all the best!
Dr. Iliri
You are welcome!
Detailed Answer:
Hello again, dear David!
I would be glad to review your medical tests (including pulmonary ones).
You can contact me directly whenever they (tests) become available.
Wishing you all the best!
Dr. Iliri
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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