[42F] Experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possible conditions:

• Heart Disease: Your symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the hands could be signs of heart disease, especially given your history of high heart rate and heart ablation. Heart disease can cause a variety of symptoms, and it's important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional if you're experiencing these symptoms.

  • Diagnosis often involves a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests like an echocardiogram or stress test. Treatment can involve lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes procedures or surgery.

• Anemia: This is a condition where your body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to your tissues. This can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Unintentional weight loss can also occur in some cases.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to check your red blood cell count and iron levels. Treatment often involves dietary changes or supplements to increase your iron intake, and in more severe cases, medications or blood transfusions may be needed.

• Thyroid Disease: Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck that produces hormones that regulate your metabolism. If it's not working properly, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, and constipation. In some cases, it can also cause a high heart rate.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels. Treatment depends on the specific type of thyroid disease, but it often involves medications to regulate your thyroid hormone levels.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of all possible conditions, and these are just possibilities based on the symptoms you've reported. It's important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms and the possibility of heart disease, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are a few steps you can take:

1. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. If your symptoms worsen or you experience severe chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they occur, and anything that makes them better or worse. This can help your healthcare provider diagnose your condition.
3. Continue taking your daily aspirin, as it can help prevent blood clots. However, don't start taking any new medications or supplements without talking to your healthcare provider first.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that's getting worse
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Symptoms that are interfering with your daily activities or causing you distress

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.