[20F] Experiencing weakness, loss of appetite, and heart palpitations

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female has been experiencing a gradual onset of weakness, described as a lack of motivation, and a loss of appetite for 2 weeks. Despite feeling hungry, she has an aversion to eating. Concurrently, she reports occasional heart palpitations that feel like a racing heart, occurring sporadically without a specific pattern or exacerbation with exercise. Additionally, she has been passing soft, green stools for the same duration and is feeling generally unwell. She has been under stress and experiencing mood changes, including anxiety. The patient is currently taking Prozac and has a known allergy to Amoxicillin. There is no reported weight change, blood in stool, chest pain, or shortness of breath. No other medications or pre-existing conditions have been disclosed.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

  • Depression: Your lack of motivation, loss of appetite, and feelings of weakness could be symptoms of depression. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can also cause physical symptoms such as changes in appetite and sleep patterns.

    • Treatment for depression often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
  • Anxiety Disorder: Your heart palpitations and feelings of anxiety could be signs of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health disorders characterized by feelings of anxiety and fear.

    • Treatment for anxiety disorders often involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Side effects of Prozac: Prozac is a medication used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, some eating disorders, and panic attacks. Some of the side effects can include loss of appetite, tiredness, and changes in sleep patterns.

    • If you suspect that your symptoms are side effects of Prozac, you should consult your doctor. They may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.
  • Dietary changes or gastrointestinal issues: The green color of your stool could be due to dietary changes (such as eating a lot of green, leafy vegetables or foods with green food coloring) or it could be a sign of a gastrointestinal issue. If you're experiencing other gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, you should seek medical attention.

    • Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. If it's due to dietary changes, adjusting your diet may help. If it's due to a gastrointestinal issue, your doctor may recommend medication or other treatments.

What you can do

  1. Seek professional help: If you're feeling depressed or anxious, it's important to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide you with the support and treatment you need to manage your symptoms.

  2. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any potential triggers. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and develop an effective treatment plan.

  3. Practice self-care: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques can all help improve your mental and physical health.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms worsen or if you start to have thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately. You can call a crisis hotline or go to the nearest emergency room.

  • If you start to experience new symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss, seek medical attention.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can Prozac cause changes in appetite and mood?

Yes, Prozac can cause changes in appetite and mood as side effects. It is important to discuss any concerning side effects with your doctor, as they may need to adjust your medication.


What might cause green stools and should I be concerned?

Green stools can be caused by dietary changes, such as consuming a lot of green vegetables or food coloring, or by gastrointestinal issues. If you experience other symptoms like abdominal pain or nausea, consult a healthcare provider.


How can stress and anxiety affect physical health?

Stress and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, fatigue, changes in appetite, and gastrointestinal issues. Managing stress through therapy, exercise, and relaxation techniques can help alleviate these symptoms.


What are common symptoms of depression in young adults?

Common symptoms of depression in young adults include persistent sadness, lack of motivation, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities. It's important to seek professional help if these symptoms persist.


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