[19F] Experiencing shortness of breath and whole-body vibrating sensation

Question

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female presents with symptoms of dizziness, shaking, shortness of breath, and a vibrating sensation throughout the body. The dizziness began suddenly, and the shortness of breath started a couple of hours ago, worsening with walking. The vibrating sensation began after the onset of shortness of breath and is felt all over the body. The patient consumed alcohol yesterday but has no history of similar episodes following alcohol consumption. There is no significant past medical history, chronic illnesses, or current medications aside from Duxipent. The patient has a family history of anxiety or panic disorders. No known allergies or adverse reactions to medications were reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

Anxiety or Panic Attack: Given your family history of anxiety or panic disorders, your symptoms of shortness of breath, shaking, and a vibrating sensation could be related to an anxiety or panic attack. These episodes can sometimes be triggered by stress, alcohol, or other factors and can cause physical symptoms like the ones you're experiencing.
Alcohol Withdrawal or Reaction: Since you consumed alcohol yesterday, it's possible that your symptoms are related to alcohol withdrawal or a reaction to alcohol. This can sometimes cause symptoms like shaking, dizziness, and shortness of breath, especially if your body is sensitive to alcohol.
Other Causes: There could be other causes for your symptoms, such as dehydration, low blood sugar, or an underlying medical condition that hasn't been identified yet.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you can do

Shortness of Breath and Vibrating Sensation:

Try to stay calm and practice deep breathing exercises to help manage your symptoms. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.
Find a comfortable position, such as sitting or lying down, to help ease your breathing.
Avoid alcohol and other substances that might exacerbate your symptoms.

General Tips:

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if you've consumed alcohol recently.
Eat small, balanced meals to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are currently mild, it's important to monitor them closely. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chest pain or palpitations
Fainting or loss of consciousness
Symptoms that worsen or do not improve with self-care measures

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

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1 mo ago

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