[31F] Experiencing fatigue, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, and brain fog

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be contributing to your symptoms:

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This condition is 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. This could explain your constant fatigue, difficulty concentrating (brain fog), and muscle weakness.

• Iron Deficiency Anemia: Given your history of low iron, this could be contributing to your fatigue, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when your body doesn't have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen in the blood.

• Dehydration: This can cause a rapid heartbeat, fatigue, and dry mouth. It can also exacerbate headaches.

• Migraines: Your history of migraines could explain your throbbing headache in your forehead and temples.

• Anxiety or Stress: Chronic stress or anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including a rapid heartbeat, chest tightness, difficulty concentrating, and gastrointestinal issues like IBS.

• Side effects of medication: Some of the medications you're taking, such as Adderall, can cause side effects like a rapid heartbeat, headaches, and dry mouth.

What you can do

1. Make sure you're drinking enough fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration. This is especially important if you've recently had diarrhea.

2. Try to maintain a balanced diet rich in iron to help manage your low iron levels. Foods high in iron include red meat, poultry, beans, and fortified cereals.

3. Try to manage your stress levels. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be helpful.

4. Continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor. If you suspect that your medications are causing or worsening your symptoms, do not stop taking them without first consulting with your doctor.

5. Regular exercise can help reduce symptoms of fatigue and improve concentration. However, it's important to start slow and gradually increase your activity level, as overexertion can worsen symptoms of CFS.

6. Ensure you're getting enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe headache or a headache that is different from your usual migraines
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Severe abdominal pain

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 appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.