[42F] Experiencing headache, increased heart rate, and cold hands

Patient Description

A 42-year-old female reports a deeply aching headache most of the day, located at the back of the neck and eyes, which worsens with walking, moving, and sitting. The patient has an elevated heart rate of 108 beats per minute while at rest and has been experiencing cold and slightly numb hands that do not improve with warming measures. Additionally, the patient has a sore throat, which has worsened over the day, and has recently started experiencing chills. The patient has a history of ulcerative colitis diagnosed in 2013 and is currently taking pregabalin, hydrocodone, loperamide, and montelukast. The patient does not report any known drug allergies and is unaware of the specific dosages of the medications taken.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Viral Infection: Your symptoms of a sore throat, headache, fatigue, and chills could be indicative of a common viral infection such as the flu or a cold. These symptoms are common in many viral illnesses and usually resolve on their own after a few days to a week.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.
  • Thyroid Disorders: Your increased heart rate and cold hands could be symptoms of a thyroid disorder, such as hyperthyroidism. This condition causes your thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone, which can speed up your metabolism and cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to control the production of thyroid hormones.
  • Anemia: This is a condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. Symptoms can include fatigue, cold hands, and an increased heart rate.

    • Treatment usually involves dietary changes or supplements to increase your iron levels.
  • Migraine: Your symptoms of a severe, aching headache that worsens with movement and is concentrated in the back of your neck and eyes could be indicative of a migraine. Migraines are a type of headache characterized by intense pain that can be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to relieve the pain and prevent future migraines.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms based on the information you've provided, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.

What you can do

  1. Rest and hydrate: If your symptoms are due to a viral infection, rest and hydration are key. Over-the-counter medications can also help manage symptoms like a sore throat and headache.
  2. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes. This information will be useful when you consult with a healthcare professional.
  3. Seek medical attention: Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential for serious conditions like thyroid disorders or anemia, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Severe pain
  • Confusion or difficulty waking up
  • A severe or worsening headache
  • A rash or purple spots on the skin
  • Severe abdominal pain

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.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common symptoms of a viral infection like the flu or a cold?

Common symptoms of a viral infection such as the flu or a cold include a sore throat, headache, fatigue, chills, fever, runny or stuffy nose, and body aches. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a few days to a week.


How can thyroid disorders affect heart rate and body temperature?

Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism, can cause an increased heart rate and sensitivity to cold due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones. This can speed up metabolism, leading to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and feeling unusually cold.


What are the signs and symptoms of anemia?

Anemia is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, irregular heartbeats, shortness of breath, dizziness, or cold hands and feet. It occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues.


What are the typical symptoms of a migraine and how can they be managed?

Migraines are typically characterized by a severe, throbbing headache, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Management includes medications to relieve pain and prevent future episodes, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.


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