Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode
Cardiology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Five years ago, I quit smoking. I am a 34-year-old male who weighs 220 lbs. I had health anxiety and had asthma tests, ECG, EKG, and chest x-rays done. I drank fairly often for four years. Over the last three months, the frequency picked up, and I was getting really drunk. Over the four years since my tests, I have smoked roughly a pack of cigarettes in total. I completed three marathons in three months last year. My son was born two months back, and my running slowed to almost a halt (3 to 10 miles a week max). I am not getting back in shape, and I am attempting a 365-day running streak and quitting alcohol for that time as well. Last week, I did 16 miles, and this week I did 20. I had a tight chest last week and went to urgent care. EKG results were normal. After running now, I seem to have a sore back and a slightly tight chest. I do not have to gasp for air, but it seems as if breathing is labored. When I take a deep breath, my chest and back feel sore. Also, I have OCD. Is this just getting back into shape?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Please answer a few questions so I can assess better. Does this occur only during exercise and is relieved with rest? Do you still smoke? Do you have any other symptoms of gastritis and reflux, like nausea, abdominal pain, chest burning, etc.? This can occur just due to heavy unaccustomed exertion or even smoking. But considering the history of smoking, alcohol, and obesity, we need to rule out the cardiac disease called chronic stable angina. In this disease, EKG can be normal in between the exercise, and changes will appear during exercise only. So, you should get a treadmill test done. If the results are normal, then we can rest assured. You should gradually increase your exercise and avoid heavy activities till we rule out cardiac disease. Also, avoid smoking and alcohol, and have a healthy diet, like avoiding fatty, oily, and high-calorie diets. Hope this helps you, and get back if you have any doubts. Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for replying. Yes, I had two treadmill tests, ECG, and a 24-hour heart monitor two years back. I do have occasional reflux and IBS symptoms as well. I do not smoke, and I have not drunk in three weeks. I actually ran 5 miles yesterday and 6.2 today. I usually only notice the symptoms after exercise has stopped. Only when I think about it, do I notice it while running.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Did you have similar symptoms when you had treadmill tests? If yes, then I do not think there is any further need. These are exercise-related symptoms, and symptoms only on thinking suggest some psychological components as well. If these are new symptoms, then it is advisable to have a repeat treadmill test and, if possible echocardiogram. I suggest you try the following. Go for a walk immediately after having food instead of taking a rest. Have multiple small meals instead of heavy meals. Have regular sleep habits and avoid stress. Consume lots of green leafy vegetables and fruits. Take Tablet Pan DSR (Domperidone and Pantoprazole) 40 mg or Esomeprazole and Domperidone combination before breakfast, once a day for two weeks. All the best.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Cardiology
Related Questions
Why am I having breathing problems accompanied by warmth in the body?
I have chills, breathing problems and cough with white phlegm. Could it be Coronavirus infection?
Do fluctuating bpm with chest discomfort reveal autonomic dysfunction?
Why am I having chest discomfort with swollen lymph nodes?
I have intercostal strain and I coughed sputum with blood. Do I need to worry?
I failed to notice a woman and a baby next to me when I was smoking.Will that baby die of SIDS?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
