[32F] Experiencing severe respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms

Patient Description

A 32-year-old female reports experiencing severe shortness of breath, a burning sensation in the lungs, rapid heart rate, coughing, dizziness, and swelling of the feet, which have been progressively worsening over the last five months. The patient describes the shortness of breath as short, rapid, deep breaths necessary for breathing, which worsens with physical activity. The symptoms are so severe that walking up stairs or even adjusting position can significantly increase her heart rate. The patient also reports a new onset of dry cough and a stinging, aching burning sensation in the lungs that started today. Swelling in the hands and feet has been present for a year and is described as tender. The patient's resting heart rate has increased from 88 to 105 beats per minute over the past five months, with episodes of it reaching up to 168 beats per minute during physical exertion. The only medication reported is Depo-Provera, received every three months. No prior diagnosed medical conditions were mentioned.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Heart Conditions: The combination of shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and swelling in your hands and feet could suggest a heart condition. Conditions such as heart failure or arrhythmias can cause these symptoms. Heart failure can cause fluid to build up in your body, leading to swelling in your hands and feet, and can also cause shortness of breath. Arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms, can cause a rapid heart rate.

    • Treatment for heart conditions can involve medications to manage symptoms and underlying causes, lifestyle changes, and sometimes procedures or surgery.
  • Lung Conditions: The burning sensation in your lungs and shortness of breath could suggest a lung condition, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. These conditions can cause difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.

    • Treatment for lung conditions often involves medications to open the airways and reduce inflammation, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism can cause symptoms like rapid heart rate and weight gain. However, these conditions often have other symptoms not mentioned here.

    • Treatment for hormonal imbalances often involves medication to restore normal hormone levels.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information provided and are not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor as soon as possible. If you can't get an appointment soon, consider going to an urgent care clinic or emergency department.
  2. Write down all of your symptoms, including when they started, what makes them better or worse, and any other relevant information. This will help your doctor in diagnosing your condition.
  3. Try to rest and avoid activities that make your symptoms worse until you can see a doctor.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that's getting worse
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Swelling in your hands or feet that's getting worse

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 accurate information.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What could cause a rapid heart rate and shortness of breath in a young adult?

A rapid heart rate and shortness of breath in a young adult could be caused by heart conditions such as arrhythmias or heart failure, lung conditions like asthma or COPD, or hormonal imbalances such as hyperthyroidism. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.


How can swelling in the hands and feet be related to heart or lung conditions?

Swelling in the hands and feet can be related to heart conditions like heart failure, where fluid builds up in the body, or lung conditions that affect circulation and fluid balance. Both can lead to fluid retention and swelling.


What are the potential side effects of using Depo-Provera that might relate to these symptoms?

Depo-Provera is a hormonal contraceptive that can cause side effects such as weight gain and changes in mood, but it is not commonly associated with symptoms like rapid heart rate or severe shortness of breath. However, any new or worsening symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.


When should someone seek immediate medical attention for symptoms like these?

Immediate medical attention should be sought if there is chest pain, worsening shortness of breath, fainting, or increasing swelling in the hands or feet, as these could indicate serious underlying conditions that require urgent care.


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