Seeking Guidance on Health Concerns
I’m reaching out for some insights regarding my current health situation. I’m a 30-year-old male, 6 feet tall and weigh 135 pounds. I've been a smoker of cigarettes and recently quit using marijuana just yesterday. Last night, I took a hit from a joint, and shortly thereafter I experienced a frightening episode. My body felt heavy, a warm, vibrating sensation coursed through me, I was hit with a wave of dread, and my hands became sweaty. I found myself pacing outside in the chilly air for almost three hours until I started feeling somewhat normal again, eventually crashing in bed. Thankfully, when I woke up, I was fine. This isn’t the first time this has happened; about a month ago, after smoking as usual, I faced similar symptoms after splashing cold water on my face—sudden numbness in my lips and tightness in my chest. At times, I also feel odd pinching sensations in my chest, and occasionally, my left arm goes numb as if it’s not there. I currently lack health insurance and have never been diagnosed with any serious medical issues such as high blood pressure or low blood pressure. The last comprehensive check-up I had was a physical back when I was 21 or 22 years old when I signed up as a volunteer with the local fire department. This series of events is becoming increasingly concerning; I genuinely want to stick around for my children. I’m planning to seek out a doctor this week, but I would appreciate any advice on what might be causing these troubling symptoms. As I mentioned, I used to smoke weed daily, including Delta 8 pens; this is the second occurrence of these symptoms throughout my usage. This situation led me to quit entirely in hopes of identifying the problem. I realize it’s crucial to stop smoking altogether, and I’m actively working on it. Thank you for any help you can provide!
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 12:20:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some very concerning symptoms that could be related to anxiety, the effects of smoking, or a combination of both. It's great to hear that you're planning to seek medical advice this week, as a healthcare professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation. Meanwhile, let's focus on what you can do to understand and manage your symptoms.
Key Points:
- Symptoms: The sensations you experienced (heavy body, sweating, dread, chest tightness, and numbness) may indicate anxiety or panic attacks, exacerbated by smoking or the immediate effects of THC from marijuana.
- Smoking and Anxiety: Smoking weed, especially if you've been using it frequently, can lead to increased anxiety and panic attacks for some individuals. Quitting can help alleviate these feelings over time.
- Physical Symptoms: Numbness in the arm and chest tightness should not be ignored, as they could point to potential cardiovascular issues, especially considering your smoking history.
Explanation:
The symptoms you described can occur during intense anxiety or panic episodes and can be quite frightening. The physical sensations—such as chest tightness and numbness—can mimic serious medical conditions, which is why it’s crucial to get these checked by a doctor, especially given your past experiences. Quitting smoking and monitoring your mental health will be important steps toward improving your overall well-being.
Next Steps:
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Seek Medical Help: Since you plan to see a doctor this week, make a list of your symptoms, including when they occur, what you were doing at the time, and how long they last. Share this information with your doctor to help them understand your situation better.
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Avoid Smoking: Continue to avoid both cigarettes and marijuana. This will help you assess whether your symptoms improve without the influence of these substances.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, try deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle physical activity like walking. This can help reduce acute anxiety symptoms.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of any future episodes, including what you were doing, your feelings, and their duration. This will help you and your doctor identify patterns and triggers.
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Consider Mental Health Support: Since you're aware of potential anxiety, exploring counseling or support groups can help you manage stress and anxiety better. Many communities offer low-cost mental health resources if you lack insurance.
It's commendable that you're dedicated to improving your health for yourself and your children. You're taking proactive steps, and that’s essential. If you notice worsening symptoms or new concerns before your appointment, don't hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.
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