[41F] Experiencing tachycardia with multiple symptoms

Patient Description

A 41-year-old female has been experiencing episodes of increased heart rate up to 122 bpm, shortness of breath, a feeling of doom, heart palpitations, and fainting. These episodes have been occurring for the past 4 days, lasting from 2-3 minutes to 10 minutes, and are often triggered by exertion. The patient also reports chest discomfort, lightheadedness, dizziness, migraines, yeast infection, and oral thrush from Candida overgrowth. She was diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) 13 months ago, post long Covid, which also led to the development of 35 food allergies. The patient carries an EpiPen due to these allergies. She takes vitamin D, a methyl-free B complex, magnesium vitamins, and Benadryl for allergic reactions. The patient has known adverse reactions to amoxicillin, doxycycline, and Bactrim, which cause hives and sickness.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms and medical history, here are a few possibilities:

  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): This condition is characterized by a significant increase in heart rate upon standing. Symptoms can include lightheadedness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, and chest pain. POTS has been reported in some people following viral illnesses, and it is also associated with conditions like MCAS.

    • Diagnosis typically involves a tilt table test or a standing test. Treatment often involves lifestyle modifications, such as increasing fluid and salt intake, and sometimes medications.
  • Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): This is a condition in which the body's mast cells mistakenly release too many chemicals, resulting in symptoms like flushing, itching, abdominal pain, nausea, and in some cases, anaphylaxis. Given your history of MCAS, it's possible that some of your symptoms could be related to this condition.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding known triggers, taking medications to reduce the release of chemicals from mast cells, and treating the symptoms of anaphylaxis if they occur.
  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: Symptoms can include a rapid heart rate, a sense of impending doom, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. These symptoms can sometimes be triggered by physical or emotional stress.

    • Treatment typically involves psychological therapy, stress management techniques, and sometimes medications.

What you can do

  1. Consult a healthcare professional: Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

  2. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

  3. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This can help manage symptoms of POTS.

  4. Practice good hygiene: This can help prevent yeast infections and oral thrush.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fainting
  • Severe headache
  • Any other severe or worsening symptoms

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and how is it diagnosed?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition where the heart rate increases significantly upon standing, leading to symptoms like lightheadedness, fainting, and rapid heartbeat. It is often diagnosed with a tilt table test or a standing test, and treatment may include lifestyle changes and medications.


How does Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) affect the body and what are common treatments?

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) involves the excessive release of chemicals from mast cells, causing symptoms such as flushing, itching, and abdominal pain. Treatment typically includes avoiding triggers, using medications to stabilize mast cells, and managing anaphylaxis symptoms if they occur.


Can anxiety or panic disorders cause physical symptoms like increased heart rate and shortness of breath?

Yes, anxiety or panic disorders can cause physical symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and a feeling of doom. These symptoms can be triggered by stress and are often managed with therapy, stress management techniques, and sometimes medications.


What are some common triggers for yeast infections and oral thrush, and how can they be prevented?

Yeast infections and oral thrush are often caused by an overgrowth of Candida. Common triggers include antibiotic use, high sugar diets, and poor oral hygiene. Prevention includes maintaining good hygiene, a balanced diet, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use.


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