[40F] Experiencing dizziness, chest tightness, and other symptoms post-eating

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms and history you've provided, here are some possible explanations:

1. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

• Rationale: MCAS can cause a variety of symptoms, including dizziness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, tingling in the mouth, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, headaches, and rashes. These symptoms often occur after exposure to certain triggers, such as foods, medications, or environmental factors.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Diagnosis often involves blood tests to measure tryptase levels, urine tests for histamine metabolites, and sometimes a skin biopsy. Treatment usually includes antihistamines (which you are already taking), mast cell stabilizers, and avoiding known triggers.

2. Allergic Reaction or Food Intolerance

• Rationale: The sudden onset of symptoms after eating, including dizziness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and tingling in the mouth, suggests a possible allergic reaction or food intolerance. The red, splotchy rash and bumps on your arms further support this.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Allergy testing (skin prick tests or blood tests) can help identify specific allergens. Treatment involves avoiding the triggering foods and using antihistamines or other medications to manage symptoms.

3. Dysautonomia (including POTS and IST)

• Rationale: Dysautonomia can cause dizziness, weakness, and headaches, especially after eating. Your history of inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) supports this.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Management includes lifestyle changes, such as increasing fluid and salt intake, wearing compression stockings, and medications to manage heart rate and blood pressure.

What you can do

Dizziness, Shortness of Breath, and Chest Tightness

• Immediate Action: Given the severity of these symptoms, especially the shortness of breath and chest tightness, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction or other urgent condition.
• At Home: Continue taking your antihistamines as prescribed. Try to identify and avoid any potential food triggers. Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, including what you ate before the symptoms started, using MDandMe to track your progress and share with your healthcare provider.

Tingling in Mouth and Rash

• Immediate Action: If the tingling or rash worsens or you experience swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek emergency medical care immediately.
• At Home: Avoid known triggers and continue taking antihistamines. Use MDandMe to document any new triggers or changes in your symptoms.

Headache and Weakness

• Immediate Action: Consult your healthcare provider to discuss these ongoing symptoms, especially since they have been persistent for several months.
• At Home: Ensure you are staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet. Keep a symptom journal using MDandMe to track any patterns or triggers.

What you should look out for

Given the complexity and severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Severe allergic reaction: Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash.
• Severe dizziness or fainting: Especially if it occurs suddenly or is accompanied by other severe symptoms.
• Worsening chest tightness or shortness of breath: These could be signs of a serious condition that needs immediate attention.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.