Concerns Regarding Brain Aneurysms and Stroke Risks
I'm a 22-year-old male, and I tend not to consume alcohol regularly. I’ve been vaping for approximately a year but am currently trying to quit. On top of that, I carry some extra weight. At the moment, my doctor has prescribed propranolol to help manage my anxiety. I struggle with intense health-related anxiety, particularly concerning the possibility of a brain bleed. I am acutely aware that nicotine use significantly increases this risk, which troubles me greatly, especially given the persistent discomfort I experience in my jaw, neck, temples, and just beneath my eye. My doctor has attributed these issues to either TMJ or my wisdom teeth, yet they still trigger my anxiety. What occupies my mind the most is the fear that narrowing and weakening blood vessels might result in an aneurysm or cause a stroke. As I mentioned earlier, I am in the process of quitting vaping, though I can’t help but wonder if the damage has already been done. What are the odds that I might already have a ruptured aneurysm? Is it possible for my blood vessels to fully recover, or could there be lasting harm? I apologize for the lengthy message; these thoughts are incessantly keeping me awake at night. I'm incredibly anxious about facing an early demise due to my poor choices in seeking relief from stress while in university.
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 12:10:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by health-related anxieties, especially concerning serious conditions like brain aneurysms and strokes. Acknowledging your concerns is a crucial first step, and it's positive that you're taking action toward quitting vaping and managing your anxiety.
Key Points:
- Your symptoms could be related to stress, TMJ, or dental issues, not necessarily a brain aneurysm.
- Anxiety can intensify your perception of physical symptoms, which may lead to heightened worry.
- While nicotine and vaping carry some health risks, there is a possibility for recovery your blood vessels improve with healthier lifestyle choices.
Explanation:
- Health Anxiety: It’s common to focus intensely on health concerns; however, many times, symptoms like jaw and neck discomfort can arise from tension due to anxiety or issues like TMJ instead of serious underlying conditions.
- Smoking/Vaping and Health Risks: Though vaping can affect vascular health, quitting leads to improvements in your overall circulation and reduces risks over time. Your body has a remarkable ability to heal.
- Aneurysms: While it’s easy to jump to conclusions, the chance of having a ruptured aneurysm at your age is very low, especially without a family history or other significant risk factors (such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, or lifestyle factors).
Next Steps:
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Vaping Cessation: Continue with your plan to quit vaping. Seek support, either through resources or support groups, if necessary. This is one of the best steps you can take for your long-term health.
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Address Symptoms: Consider gentle exercises and relaxation techniques for your jaw and neck. Applying warmth, practicing gentle stretches, or using a mouthguard (if TMJ is a concern) might alleviate discomfort.
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Monitor Anxiety: Look into anxiety management strategies such as mindfulness, therapy, or support groups. Since you have a prescription for propranolol, ensure you're using it as directed to manage anxiety symptoms.
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Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Focus on incorporating a balanced diet and regular exercise. Losing weight can help improve overall health and decrease anxiety levels over time.
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Educate Yourself: Educate yourself on the risks of smoking and its effects on your health, but also reinforce that your body can heal after quitting.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to follow up with your doctor for further evaluations to provide you with reassurance and a personalized approach to your concerns.
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as addressing physical health, and there are effective ways to manage both. You're taking important steps in a positive direction.
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