[31F] Pregnant with eye movement abnormalities and systemic symptoms

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female, currently 24 weeks pregnant, reports experiencing involuntary, rapid, and random eye movements described as 'dancing eyes,' which have been constant for the past 30 minutes. She also feels a mild, whole-body shakiness, described as jerking, without any specific triggers. Additionally, she has a racing heartbeat accompanied by shortness of breath and severe, almost constant nausea for the past 20 minutes. She has been feeling particularly stressed and has consumed caffeine. The patient has a history of epilepsy, diagnosed in infancy, but has been seizure-free for 10 years. She is currently taking 81mg of baby aspirin daily and prenatal vitamins branded 'One a Day.' No known allergies or other medications reported. She has also been struggling to keep her eyes open throughout the day, unable to hold them open for more than a few seconds at a time.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: Stress can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including a racing heart, shakiness, and difficulty breathing. The feeling of electricity running through your heart could be palpitations, a common symptom of anxiety. Nausea is also common in anxiety disorders.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy and medication. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene, can also be beneficial.
  • Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid can cause symptoms like a rapid heart rate, shakiness, and eye problems. It's more common in women and can sometimes occur during pregnancy.

    • Treatment usually involves medication to slow down the thyroid, and sometimes surgery or radioactive iodine.
  • Preeclampsia: This is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. It usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure had been normal. It can lead to serious, even fatal, complications for both mother and baby.

    • Treatment often involves medications to lower blood pressure and prevent seizures. Delivery of the baby and placenta is the only cure.
  • Neurological Conditions: Given your history of epilepsy and the description of your symptoms, it's possible that you're experiencing some kind of neurological event. This could be a type of seizure or another neurological condition.

    • Treatment would depend on the specific condition and could involve medication, surgery, or other interventions.

What you can do

Given the severity and sudden onset of your symptoms, it's important that you seek immediate medical attention. Please go to the nearest emergency department or call an ambulance.

What you should look out for

If you develop any of the following symptoms, it's important that you seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Abdominal pain
  • Swelling in your hands or face
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden, severe nausea or vomiting

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 professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of anxiety or panic disorder during pregnancy?

Common symptoms of anxiety or panic disorder during pregnancy include a racing heart, shakiness, difficulty breathing, nausea, and feelings of overwhelming stress. These symptoms can be managed with therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.


How can hyperthyroidism affect pregnancy, and what are its symptoms?

Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy can lead to symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shakiness, weight loss, and eye problems. It can affect both the mother and the baby, potentially leading to complications like preterm birth or low birth weight. Treatment usually involves medication to manage thyroid levels.


What are the signs and risks of preeclampsia in pregnant women?

Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, often after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms include severe headaches, blurred vision, abdominal pain, and swelling. It poses serious risks to both mother and baby, and the only cure is delivery.


Can epilepsy affect pregnancy, and what precautions should be taken?

Epilepsy can affect pregnancy, as hormonal changes may influence seizure frequency. It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to manage epilepsy with safe medications and monitor the pregnancy closely to ensure the health of both mother and baby.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback