[19F] Experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, and heart palpitations

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female presents with a long-standing history of severe nausea and vomiting, particularly in the mornings and when attempting to eat, which has persisted for over four years. The vomiting is described as sometimes being just acid or foamy, without food content, and is accompanied by multiple episodes of dry heaving. Physical activity exacerbates her nausea. She also reports experiencing heart palpitations that are rapid and cause a tightening sensation in her chest; these palpitations can wake her from sleep and are accompanied by episodes of sweating profusely while feeling cold. The patient has lost a significant amount of weight due to these symptoms and has a history of recurrent kidney stones and UTIs, requiring surgical intervention. She is currently on a 10-day course of Keflex, takes Zofran for nausea (which is no longer providing relief), and uses Ashwagandha. She has a known medication allergy to Flomax. There is a family history of gastrointestinal and cardiac conditions.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.

    • Treatment for GERD typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In severe cases, prescription medications or surgery may be required.
  • Gastroparesis: This is a condition in which the stomach cannot empty itself of food in a normal fashion. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and early satiety (feeling full quickly).

    • Treatment for gastroparesis usually involves dietary changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.
  • Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. It can accelerate your body's metabolism, causing unintentional weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating, and irritability.

    • Treatment for hyperthyroidism can include radioactive iodine, medications, and sometimes surgery.
  • Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including nausea, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. It's also possible to experience symptoms without feeling anxious in your mind.

    • Treatment for anxiety disorders can include psychotherapy, medications, or both.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Consult a healthcare provider: Given the duration and severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

  2. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you and your healthcare provider identify any patterns or triggers related to your symptoms.

  3. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This can help manage your symptoms and prevent malnutrition.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your vomit or stool
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Fainting spells

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain, especially when lying down at night.


How is gastroparesis diagnosed and treated?

Gastroparesis is diagnosed through tests such as gastric emptying studies, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and ultrasound. Treatment often involves dietary changes, medications to stimulate stomach muscles, and in severe cases, surgical interventions.


What are the signs of hyperthyroidism and how is it managed?

Signs of hyperthyroidism include unintentional weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, increased appetite, nervousness, anxiety, tremors, sweating, and sensitivity to heat. Management may involve medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery to reduce thyroid hormone production.


Can anxiety disorders cause physical symptoms like nausea and heart palpitations?

Yes, anxiety disorders can manifest as physical symptoms, including nausea, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and even chest pain. These symptoms can occur even if the person does not feel mentally anxious. Treatment typically involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback