[46F] With severe heart palpitations, headache, and facial numbness post-heart surgery

Patient Description

A 46-year-old female reports severe heart palpitations described as fluttering and pounding, lasting for about 15 minutes at a time and occurring throughout the day. These palpitations started today, but she has had similar episodes in the past. She is unable to exercise due to these palpitations. Additionally, she is experiencing a severe headache that is sharp and aching, primarily located at the front and temples of her head. She has not found anything that helps relieve the headache, and nothing seems to make it worse. This is the first time she has experienced a headache like this. The patient also reports numbness in her face, described as a loss of sensation, which started after she had open-heart surgery five weeks ago to remove a tumor from her heart. She has not experienced any chest pain, changes in vision, weakness, difficulty speaking, or other neurological symptoms, but she does feel some dizziness or lightheadedness. She is currently taking Warfarin (4mg daily), Klonopin (1mg daily), Aspirin (81mg daily), and Pepcid (20mg daily), all of which she started five weeks ago. She has no known allergies to medications and is up to date with her vaccinations, including the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are several serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Cardiac Arrhythmia: Given your history of heart surgery and current medications, your heart palpitations could be due to an abnormal heart rhythm. This can be serious and requires immediate medical attention.
  2. Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): The facial numbness and dizziness could indicate a stroke or TIA, especially given your recent heart surgery. This is a medical emergency.
  3. Post-Surgical Complications: The combination of your symptoms could be related to complications from your recent heart surgery, such as blood clots or issues with your heart function.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity of your symptoms, you should go to the emergency room immediately. If you are alone or feel that your symptoms are worsening, call 911 for an ambulance.
  2. Do Not Drive Yourself: If possible, have someone else drive you to the hospital. Your symptoms could worsen, making it unsafe for you to drive.
  3. Bring Your Medication List: Make sure to bring a list of your current medications and dosages to the hospital. This will help the medical team provide the best care for you.
  4. Monitor Your Symptoms: While waiting for medical help, keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as increased dizziness, worsening headache, or new symptoms like chest pain or difficulty speaking.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is crucial to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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5 mo ago

People Also Ask

What could be causing my heart palpitations after heart surgery?

Heart palpitations after heart surgery could be due to cardiac arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms. These can occur due to changes in the heart's structure or function after surgery and may require medical evaluation.

Is facial numbness a common symptom after heart surgery?

Facial numbness is not typically a common symptom after heart surgery and could indicate a more serious condition such as a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). It is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause.

Can my medications cause dizziness or lightheadedness?

Yes, medications like Warfarin and Klonopin can cause dizziness or lightheadedness as side effects. It's important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure your medications are not contributing to your symptoms.

What should I do if I experience severe headaches and dizziness?

If you experience severe headaches and dizziness, especially with a history of recent heart surgery, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt evaluation and treatment.

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