Can Cocaine Cause Intermittent Stinging Sensations In The Chest?

Posted on Sat, 30 Sep 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 30 Sep 2017 Answered on

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : random sting and pinching near upper left chest that comes and goes.

Answered by Dr. Bhanu Partap (47 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, the Cocaine use can cause this

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

After going through the medical details provided by you I would like to tell you that cocaine is a substance that is a powerful sympathetic system stimulator and its abuse is associated with all these symptoms including anxiety.

It also has strong arrhythmogenic properties which can cause life-threatening cardiac Arrhythmias leading to severe consequences.

It's highly advisable to stop using any type of such recreational drugs and focus on having a healthy lifestyle. Please be advised to get an ECG done to rule out any cardiac issues.

I hope this information will guide you properly. Feel free to ask further.

Kind regards
Dr. Bhanu Partap

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Bhanu Partap (1 hour later)

even in very small doses. I'm talking less than a half of gram over the course of 4 hrs. what is the main symptom I should look for before something bad happens? thank you

Answered by Dr. Bhanu Partap (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Hello again

Detailed Answer:
Every individual has a different threshold for different amount Of cocaine and even a small dose can be harmful.

Main symptoms includes palpitations, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, tingling sensations hallucinations, etc.

Kind Regards
Dr Bhanu Partap

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana