[28F] Experiencing headache, slight dizziness, and increased heart rate

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female reports experiencing episodes of lightheadedness, a mild headache, and an elevated heart rate. These symptoms appear to occur concurrently, about three times a day, and are not associated with any specific time of day. The lightheadedness is described as a 'floaty' feeling, which may happen after standing for a period. The headache is characterized as a light, dull ache at the top middle of the head and occurs in tandem with the dizziness. The patient's heart rate feels harder, resembling a less intense panic attack, without a definitive increase in pace. Minor chest pain accompanies these symptoms, but there are no breathing difficulties. The patient also experiences difficulty focusing vision when dizzy, although it does not become blurry. The patient has a medical history of panic disorder, anxiety disorder, and low thyroid hormones, diagnosed approximately 10 years and a few months ago, respectively. Current medications include paroxetine and levothyroxine. No known drug allergies. No fainting episodes associated with the current symptoms, but past episodes have occurred as a fear response.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand up from a sitting or lying position. This can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and blurred vision. It can also cause you to faint or feel like you're about to faint.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes such as standing up slowly, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol. In some cases, medication may be necessary.
  • Anxiety Disorders: Given your history of panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, it's possible that your symptoms are related to anxiety. Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including dizziness, lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, and chest pain.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Thyroid Disorders: You mentioned that you have low thyroid hormones and are taking levothyroxine. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can cause a variety of symptoms, including dizziness and rapid heart rate.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to balance thyroid hormones.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible conditions that could explain your symptoms. It's also possible that you are experiencing more than one condition at the same time.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. They may want to adjust your medication or order tests to rule out other conditions.
  2. Monitor your symptoms and note any patterns or triggers. This information can be helpful for your doctor.
  3. Practice good hydration and try to stand up slowly to help manage symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.
  4. Continue taking your medication as prescribed, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Severe headache or sudden, severe dizziness
  • Any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I am not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is orthostatic hypotension and how can it be managed?

Orthostatic hypotension is a condition where there is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying position, leading to dizziness and lightheadedness. It can be managed by standing up slowly, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol. In some cases, medication may be necessary.


How can anxiety disorders contribute to physical symptoms like dizziness and elevated heart rate?

Anxiety disorders can cause a variety of physical symptoms due to the body's stress response, including dizziness, lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, and chest pain. These symptoms can be managed with a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.


What role do thyroid disorders play in causing symptoms such as dizziness and rapid heart rate?

Thyroid disorders, particularly low thyroid hormone levels, can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and rapid heart rate due to the body's metabolism being affected. Treatment typically involves medication to balance thyroid hormones.


What are some immediate warning signs that require medical attention when experiencing these symptoms?

Immediate warning signs that require medical attention include severe chest pain or shortness of breath, fainting or loss of consciousness, severe headache or sudden, severe dizziness, and any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.


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