(LifeWire) - A sharp pain in David Bowie's shoulder eventually led the musician to cancel part of a tour in 2004.
It may have saved his life: While doctors were investigating the shoulder pain, they discovered a severely blocked artery.
According to the National Institutes of Health, a blocked artery is technically diagnosed as coronary artery disease. This disease can be completely asymptomatic. Or it can sometimes cause pain in the shoulder, neck, back, arms or jaw. Some patients also experience chest pain (angina).
Bowie, 57, reportedly began experiencing symptoms while on a European tour. A concert was cut short because of the shoulder pain. Doctors found the blockage days later.
The rock legend, who has a history of smoking, was at higher risk of heart attack and stroke because of his habit. Smoking increases heart rate and blood pressure while causing arteries and veins to narrow. He reportedly quit smoking in 2002.
Bowie underwent emergency angioplasty to unblock his artery. The procedure involves inserting a synthetic tube or balloon into the artery. Doctors then inflate the tube or balloon, which opens the artery and resumes blood flow.
Angioplasty reduces ...
- Coronary artery disease symptoms, which can include chest pain and difficulty breathing
- The risk of damage to the heart muscle
- The risk of a heart attack, which happens when an artery is completely blocked
The procedure is relatively low risk, but complications can occur. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Bowie's surgery was reportedly successful. Since the procedure, he has had no more reported heart problems.
Sources:
"David Bowie has emergency heart surgery." usatoday.com. 8 Jul 2004. Associated Press. 10 Nov 2008 <http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2004-07-08-bowie-heart-surgery_x.htm>.
"Cigarette Smoking and Cardiovascular Diseases." americanheart.org. 2008. American Heart Association. 12 Nov 2008 <http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4545>.
"What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease?" nhlbi.nih.gov. Jul 2007. National Institutes of Health. 10 Nov 2008 <http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Cad/CAD_SignsAndSymptoms.html>.
"What Is Coronary Angioplasty?" nhlbi.nih.gov. Jul 2007. National Institutes of Health. 10 Nov 2008 <http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Angioplasty/Angioplasty_WhatIs.html>.
