[18F] Experiencing severe lightheadedness, cough, and headache

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female has been experiencing severe lightheadedness, described as feeling like she's about to pass out, which worsens with movement and has been ongoing since yesterday. She reports shaking in her arms, legs, and hands, indicating a lack of strength that has persisted all day. Additionally, she has been suffering from nausea for three days, rating the severity as 8 out of 10, and weakness for the past 3 to 5 hours, rated as 5 out of 10. She has a severe, new-onset headache that is sharp and throbbing, located in the front of her head, around the eyes, and on the sides, which has been present for three days. A persistent dry cough for the past week causes a sensation of breathlessness and chest tightness, accompanied by chills and a suspected fever. She has tried cough drops, DayQuil, and Tylenol without relief. The patient has no known allergies, adverse reactions to medications, or pre-existing conditions.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you may be experiencing:

  • Influenza (Flu): The flu is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms can include high fever, chills, headache, cough, body aches, and fatigue. The severity of these symptoms can vary, and some people may experience complications such as pneumonia.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. Antiviral medications may be prescribed in some cases.
  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause physical symptoms such as shaking, feeling faint, and difficulty breathing. They can also cause difficulty concentrating and feelings of impending doom.

    • Treatment typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
  • Migraine: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by intense, throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. In some cases, migraines can cause weakness or numbness in the arms or legs.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.
  • Pneumonia: This is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. Symptoms can include cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest, and hydration.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention. In the meantime, try to rest and stay hydrated. Avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face
  • Seizures

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate 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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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of the flu and how can it be treated?

Common symptoms of the flu include high fever, chills, headache, cough, body aches, and fatigue. Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed.


How can anxiety or panic disorders manifest physically, and what are the treatment options?

Anxiety or panic disorders can cause physical symptoms such as shaking, feeling faint, difficulty breathing, and a racing heart. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes to manage stress.


What are the distinguishing features of a migraine compared to other types of headaches?

Migraines are characterized by intense, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They differ from other headaches in their severity and associated symptoms. Treatment involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.


What are the signs of pneumonia and how is it typically treated?

Signs of pneumonia include a cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest, and hydration. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.


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