[26F] Experiencing postpartum symptoms with cardiovascular and gastrointestinal concerns

Patient Description

A 26-year-old female reports constant fatigue, elevated heart rate with minimal physical activity, and shortness of breath for the past 6 months. These symptoms began postpartum after delivering a baby and coincide with a weight gain of 30 pounds. The patient also experiences dizziness without fainting and has intermittent diarrhea with constipation, vomiting during bowel movements, and occasional blood in stool. The patient has a history of pulmonary embolism and pulmonary hypertension following a C-section 6 months ago and is currently on Eliquis 5mg twice daily. There is a family history of Lupus (father). No known drug allergies or use of recreational drugs, tobacco, or alcohol. No other medications reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): This condition is characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate that occurs after sitting up or standing. Symptoms often include lightheadedness, fainting, and rapid heartbeat. Your symptoms of an elevated heart rate with minimal physical activity and dizziness could be indicative of this condition.

    • Diagnostic testing typically involves a tilt table test, and treatment usually includes lifestyle changes and medications to manage symptoms.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that can't be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity, but doesn't improve with rest. Your constant fatigue could be a symptom of this condition.

    • There's no single test to confirm a diagnosis of CFS. You may need a variety of medical tests to rule out other health problems that have similar symptoms.
  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding: This condition is characterized by the presence of blood in the stool. Your symptoms of blood in your stool could be indicative of this condition.

    • Diagnostic testing typically involves a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, and treatment depends on the cause of the bleeding.
  • Gastroenteritis: This condition is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Your symptoms of diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps could be indicative of this condition.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications.

Please note that these are potential diagnoses based on the information you've provided, and you should consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Consult with a healthcare provider: They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

  2. Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea and vomiting.

  3. Rest: Try to get plenty of sleep and rest to help manage your fatigue.

  4. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any potential triggers. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your vomit
  • Black, tarry stools
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Difficulty breathing

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and how is it diagnosed?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate that occurs after sitting up or standing. Symptoms often include lightheadedness, fainting, and rapid heartbeat. It is typically diagnosed using a tilt table test, which measures how your heart rate and blood pressure respond to changes in posture.


What are the common symptoms and diagnostic methods for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity but doesn't improve with rest. Diagnosis involves ruling out other health problems with similar symptoms, as there is no single test for CFS.


What could cause blood in the stool and how is gastrointestinal bleeding diagnosed?

Blood in the stool can be caused by gastrointestinal bleeding, which may result from conditions like hemorrhoids, ulcers, or more serious issues like cancer. Diagnosis typically involves procedures such as a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to identify the source of bleeding.


What are the symptoms and treatment options for gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Treatment usually involves rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.


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