Q. Can extreme coughing cause heart issues?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Yes, extreme or persistent coughing can potentially lead to heart issues or exacerbate existing heart conditions in several ways:

Increased Heart Rate: Intense coughing episodes can elevate heart rate and blood pressure temporarily, putting additional strain on the heart.

Reduced Blood Flow: Repeated, forceful coughing can impede blood flow to the heart and other organs, leading to reduced oxygen delivery and potential strain on the cardiovascular system.

Arrhythmias: Severe coughing bouts can disrupt the heart's normal rhythm, potentially leading to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

Increased Cardiac Demand: Coughing requires increased oxygen consumption and can demand more from the heart, particularly in individuals with preexisting heart conditions.

Valsalva Maneuver: The Valsalva maneuver, often unintentionally performed during forceful coughing, involves holding one's breath and straining. This maneuver can decrease blood return to the heart and lead to temporary changes in heart rate and blood pressure.

Fluid Retention: Chronic coughing can lead to fluid retention in the lungs, worsening symptoms in individuals with heart failure or other cardiac issues.

Cough Medications: Certain cough medications, such as decongestants or antihistamines, can affect heart rate and blood pressure, potentially interacting with underlying heart conditions.

While occasional coughing is normal and typically not a cause for concern, extreme or persistent coughing that is associated with other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Individuals with known heart conditions should be especially cautious and seek medical advice if their coughing episodes seem to be affecting their cardiovascular health.

Read Answer Right Arrow
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!