[49F] Experiencing chest pain, tachycardia, dyspnea, fatigue, and palpitations

Patient Description

A 49-year-old female presents with a history of chest pain when lying flat, sudden tachycardia with a heart rate sometimes over 150 bpm, dyspnea, fatigue, and multiple irregular palpitations causing dizziness and syncope, which have been occurring for 14 years. The palpitations have become more intense and frequent lately. The chest pain is described as burning, stabbing, sharp, and piercing, lasting from 10 minutes to a couple of hours and radiating down the left arm. The patient has a history of long Covid, migraines, asthma, anxiety, depression, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia, diagnosed over 3 years ago. The patient also experiences migraines approximately 10 times per month and has weak pulses occasionally. The patient takes Lasix daily and has a history of leg swelling. Known allergies include penicillin, IV contrast, and hay, which can cause anaphylaxis. Current medications include Morphine, Percocet, Lasix, Cymbalta, Effexor, Elavil, Gabapentin, Flexeril, Clonazepam, and Benadryl.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Cardiac Arrhythmias: Conditions like atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia could explain your palpitations, tachycardia, and episodes of syncope. These conditions involve an irregular heartbeat, which can cause symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and fainting.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to control the heart rate or rhythm, and in some cases, procedures like cardioversion or ablation.
  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This condition involves narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. It can cause symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Given your chest pain radiates down your left arm, this is a concern.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery.
  • Heart Failure: This is a condition in which the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and ankles. Given your use of Lasix (a diuretic often used to treat fluid overload in heart failure), this is a possibility.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, medication, and in severe cases, devices or surgery.
  • Anxiety Disorders: Conditions like panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder can cause physical symptoms like heart palpitations, tachycardia, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Given your history of anxiety and depression, this could be contributing to your symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, and self-care strategies.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal evaluation.

What you can do

  1. Seek immediate medical attention: Given your severe chest pain, episodes of syncope, and high heart rate, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a serious heart condition.

  2. Follow up with your healthcare provider: If you're not currently under the care of a cardiologist, consider seeking a referral. They can provide a more thorough evaluation and management plan.

  3. 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.

  4. Manage your mental health: Continue to manage your anxiety and depression, as these conditions can contribute to physical symptoms. This may involve medication, therapy, and self-care strategies.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fainting
  • A rapid or irregular heartbeat that doesn't go away
  • Any other symptoms that concern you

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias?

Common symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias include palpitations, a racing or slow heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting. These symptoms occur because the heart is not beating in a regular rhythm, which can affect blood flow.


How can coronary artery disease be diagnosed and treated?

Coronary artery disease can be diagnosed through tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress tests, echocardiograms, and coronary angiography. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, medications to manage cholesterol and blood pressure, and procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery to restore blood flow.


What lifestyle changes can help manage heart failure?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage heart failure include reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and managing stress. These changes can help reduce the workload on the heart and improve overall health.


How can anxiety disorders contribute to physical symptoms like palpitations and chest pain?

Anxiety disorders can cause physical symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath due to the body's 'fight or flight' response. This response can increase heart rate and blood pressure, leading to these symptoms. Managing anxiety through therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques can help alleviate these physical symptoms.


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