[18M] Experiencing gastrointestinal and cardiac symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential explanations for what you might be experiencing:

1. Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and sometimes headaches. The sudden onset and nature of your diarrhea and abdominal pain could suggest this. Treatment typically involves staying hydrated and resting, and it often resolves on its own.

2. Stress-Related Symptoms: The recent emotional stress from your breakup could be contributing to your symptoms. Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues and lead to symptoms like headaches, chest pain, and heart palpitations. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or talking to someone about your feelings might help alleviate some symptoms.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): While IBS is typically a chronic condition, stress and dietary changes can trigger episodes of diarrhea and abdominal pain. IBS can also cause nausea and changes in stool appearance.

4. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: The racing heart, chest pain, and difficulty breathing, especially at night, could be related to anxiety or panic attacks, which can be triggered by stress.

What you can do

For Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or oral rehydration solutions.
• Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet).
• Avoid dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or spicy foods until symptoms improve.

For Nausea:

• Try ginger tea or ginger ale, which can help settle your stomach.
• Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones.

For Stress and Heart Palpitations:

• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
• Consider speaking with a counselor or therapist to help manage stress and emotional well-being.

For Chest Pain and Breathing Difficulty:

• If these symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention to rule out any serious conditions.

General Advice:

• Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are concerning, they may not be life-threatening. However, you should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool
• High fever or persistent chills
• Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Fainting or feeling faint

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out.