[18F] Experiencing chest pressure, heart palpitations, and breathlessness
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:
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Panic Disorder: This is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that may include palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate; sweating; trembling or shaking; sensations of shortness of breath, smothering, or choking; and feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faint.
- Treatment for panic disorder often involves a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
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Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): This is a condition where your heart suddenly beats much faster than it should. It usually happens while you're at rest. You might feel a rapid fluttering in your chest, or a pounding heart (palpitations), along with dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, or fainting.
- Treatment for SVT can include maneuvers (certain movements you can do with your body), medications, or procedures to correct your heart's rhythm.
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Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include rapid heart rate, palpitations, nervousness, or irritability, increased sweating, and feeling hot.
- Treatment for hyperthyroidism can include medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
Please note that these are only possibilities, and the only way to get a definitive diagnosis is to see a healthcare provider.
What you can do
- Make an appointment to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can evaluate your symptoms and may order tests such as an EKG or blood tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
- Try to notice if there are any triggers for your symptoms. This could be certain activities, foods, or even stress. Avoid these triggers if possible.
- Practice deep breathing exercises and other stress management techniques. This may help reduce your symptoms if they are related to anxiety or panic disorder.
What you should look out for
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- Your symptoms become more frequent or severe
- You experience chest pain
- You faint or lose consciousness
- You have difficulty breathing
Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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9 mo ago