[18F] Experiencing severe heart palpitations and chest pain
Patient Description
An 18-year-old female has been experiencing heart palpitations that are painful, with heart rates sometimes reaching 200-225 beats per minute. These episodes last a few seconds, occurring approximately 15 times a day, and start and stop suddenly without any specific triggers. She also reports a squeezing chest pain in the mid slightly left area of her chest, which she rates as 9 out of 10 in severity. The pain has been present for 1 month and is not alleviated by physical movements but is somewhat covered by ibuprofen. Additionally, she experiences severe fatigue and sweating, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and has fainted once. She has a family history of similar cardiac problems. Two months ago, she had sinus tachycardia due to a vitamin deficiency, which has since been resolved. She is not currently on any medications, has no known drug allergies, and does not use recreational drugs, alcohol, or caffeine excessively.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms, the following conditions could be possible:
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): This is a condition where your heart suddenly beats much faster. It can start and stop suddenly, and can cause symptoms like a racing heart, chest pain, lightheadedness, and fainting. It's often not life-threatening, but can be uncomfortable and concerning. An electrocardiogram (ECG) would be needed to confirm this diagnosis.
- Panic Disorder: This is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurring severe panic attacks. It may also include significant behavioral changes lasting at least a month and of ongoing worry about the implications or concern about having other attacks.
- Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which can speed up your heart rate and cause palpitations, sweating, and anxiety. A blood test would be needed to confirm this diagnosis.
What you can do
- Seek immediate medical attention: Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. You should go to the emergency department or call an ambulance if you're alone and your symptoms worsen.
- Follow-Up with a Cardiologist: If your symptoms are not immediately life-threatening, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible. A cardiologist can perform tests like an ECG or a stress test to determine the cause of your symptoms.
- Keep a symptom diary: Write down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they happen, and how long they last. This can help your doctor diagnose your condition.
What you should look out for
- Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms get worse, you should seek immediate medical attention. This includes more severe chest pain, more frequent or longer-lasting episodes of tachycardia, or more frequent fainting spells.
- New symptoms: If you develop new symptoms, like swelling in your legs, sudden weight gain, or coughing up blood, you should seek medical attention.
Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.
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9 mo ago