Re: atypical chest pain

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on June 07, 1998 at 08:22:32:

In Reply to: Re: atypical chest pain posted by donna to DLB an addendum on June 07, 1998 at 01:15:42:







: Dear DLB..thanks for such a quick respsonse..I did have a holter that showed
occ. pvc's.The cardiologist said its insignificant. But I can exercize at at sea
level fairly well.Out of curiosity does
elevation (moderate, even 3,000 feet) affect many heart patients? At that elevation I
feel I have to move very slowly to avoid causing my neck/chest pain. It
almost seems like its caused by any increased pressure on my diaphragm. Like when Im
walking in deep water..the pressure seems to cause increased incidence.
Also, can taking muscle relaxants decrease the incidents of angina in
diagnosed individuals? I don't think the pain is psychogenic..I'm far to level
headed for that.  This forum is wonderful! thank you
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Dear Donna:
High altitude can definitely cause a worsening of angina in people with severe coronary artery disease; this is especially true if the change in altitude occurs without a chance for the body to acclimatize.  Severe lung disease can also worsen at higher altitudes; this is generally true of patients that require supplemental oxygen.
Muscle relaxants should have no effect on true angina.  Muscle relaxants can be very helpful for muscle spasm, say from a pinched nerve.  They can also have an anti-anxiety or sedative effect.
Information provided here is of a general nature.  Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.