
I Was Wondering If I Should Seek A Second Opinion



1. I am currently 240 pounds 5'11, recently lost 28 pounds and no drop in blood pressure (was high at 268 and stood about the same at 240) and a slight drop in cholesterol when losing the weight.
2. I have had high cholesterol since I was 13 years old (main reason why I am concerned with early heart disease).
3. My family has a history of heart disease with my uncle and grandfather both dying suddenly of a heart attack around age of 55 (one was very overweight and the other was a heavy smoker).
4. I do not smoke
5. My EKG was normal both times at 268 pounds and 240. And I passed the stress test at 268 pounds.
6. I have recurring lower back pain every three months or so that pretty much debilitates me for a day (never mentioned this to cardiologist but I just recently learned this can also be a sign of CVD).
7. Always had an issue with lockjaw when yawning too hard (may be irrelevant but also learned jaw pain can be an indicator).
8. When I was heavier I would have dizzyness when I stood up too fast after sitting for a long time but this seems to have disappeared after losing weight.
9. Pain gets slightly worse some of the times when I apply pressure or when I bend my upper body to left or right, this isn't consistent though.
10. Not on any blood pressure or cholesterol medication, I asked if I should last time and he said not at my age despite me having pretty high cholesterol since I was 13 (usually ranged from 210-230 if I remember correctly).
What would you diagnose this with the information given? Should I push for further testing? Is there a way to definitely determine if it is musculoskeletal pain? I have a yearly appointment with the cardiologist coming up with a full lipid panel etc. Is there anything specific I should bring up to him?
Thank you!
Nothing to worry
Detailed Answer:
Hello
After going through the medical details provided by you I can understand your concern for your health and well being and I would like to assure you that all the symptoms which you are experiencing or not because of any cardiac issue as your stress test was negative.
All these muscle aches and tenderness could be due to your changing body Pattern and your changed diet.
The only test that can confirm the presence or absence of coronary artery disease is angiography. But that is not required in your case.
Just continue your weight loss journey in a bit easy more and maintain healthy lifestyle routine with proper diet and regular exercise.
Feel free to ask if you have any other doubts.
Kind Regards


Hello again
Detailed Answer:
First of all stop worrying as this is not angina.
Secondly for proper pain management you can consult with a pain therapist or a psychologist personally.
Hope to have been helpful.
Kind Regards

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