[18F] Experiencing heart palpitations and low heart rate

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female has been experiencing heart palpitations described as a pounding or fluttering sensation for approximately one month. These palpitations occur both during physical activity and at rest, lasting about one minute each time. The patient also reported one episode of dizziness but no chest pain, fainting spells, or difficulty breathing. Additionally, the patient feels fatigued. The patient's medical history includes asthma, diagnosed 10 years ago. Current medications include Lexapro and Alvesco, taken for over a year, and occasional use of Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Albuterol, and Melatonin. The patient consumes caffeine, alcohol, and cannabis. There is no known family history of cardiac issues, and the patient has no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause symptoms like heart palpitations, fatigue, and dizziness. However, you've mentioned that you're not feeling more stressed or anxious lately.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy) and medication management.
  • Heart Arrhythmias: This refers to conditions where the heart beats irregularly, too fast, or too slow. It can cause symptoms like heart palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue.

    • Treatment may involve medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, medical procedures.
  • Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which can speed up the body's metabolism and cause symptoms like heart palpitations and fatigue.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to slow down the production of thyroid hormones, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Anemia: This is a condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues, which can cause symptoms like fatigue and heart palpitations.

    • Treatment typically involves dietary changes and supplements, medication, and in severe cases, blood transfusions.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms, but they are not definitive. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

Here are some general recommendations to manage your symptoms:

  1. Limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and weed, as these substances can affect your heart rate and potentially trigger palpitations.
  2. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and ensure you're getting enough rest.
  3. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.
  4. Regular exercise can help improve your overall health and wellbeing, but make sure to start slowly and gradually increase intensity to avoid triggering palpitations.
  5. Practice stress management techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe chest pain or discomfort
  • Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Severe or worsening fatigue
  • Palpitations that are accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or fainting

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


Can anxiety or panic disorders cause heart palpitations and fatigue?

Yes, anxiety or panic disorders can cause heart palpitations and fatigue. These conditions can trigger the body's 'fight or flight' response, leading to increased heart rate and feelings of exhaustion.


What are heart arrhythmias and how can they affect my health?

Heart arrhythmias are conditions where the heart beats irregularly, too fast, or too slow. They can cause symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue, and may require treatment such as medication or lifestyle changes.


How does hyperthyroidism lead to symptoms like heart palpitations and fatigue?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, speeding up the body's metabolism. This can lead to symptoms like heart palpitations and fatigue due to increased heart rate and energy expenditure.


What is anemia and how can it cause heart palpitations?

Anemia is a condition where there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. This can cause fatigue and heart palpitations as the heart works harder to deliver oxygen.


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