[55F] With heart palpitations, lightheadedness, and sweating during activities and bowel movements

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential diagnoses that could explain your condition:

Heart-Related Issues

1. Arrhythmia: Your symptoms of fast, pounding heart palpitations, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath could be due to an irregular heart rhythm, known as arrhythmia. Arrhythmias can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly, leading to the symptoms you're experiencing. Common types include atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.

   • Testing and Treatment: An EKG (electrocardiogram) or a Holter monitor (a portable EKG device worn for 24-48 hours) can help diagnose arrhythmias. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures like cardioversion or ablation.

2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Your fluctuating blood pressure readings and the fact that you are on Lisinopril suggest that your high blood pressure might not be fully controlled. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to heart palpitations, dizziness, and other symptoms.

   • Testing and Treatment: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, adjusting medications, and lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, exercising, and managing stress can help control hypertension.

Autonomic Dysfunction

3. POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome): Given that your symptoms often occur during simple activities and you feel lightheaded, POTS could be a possibility. POTS is a condition where the heart rate increases significantly upon standing, leading to dizziness, palpitations, and sometimes fainting.
   • Testing and Treatment: A tilt table test can help diagnose POTS. Treatment often includes increasing fluid and salt intake, wearing compression stockings, and medications to manage heart rate and blood pressure.

Other Considerations

4. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: While you mentioned not being under significant stress, anxiety or panic attacks can sometimes cause sudden heart palpitations, sweating, and dizziness.
   • Testing and Treatment: A mental health evaluation can help diagnose anxiety or panic disorders. Treatment may include therapy, medications, and stress management techniques.

What you can do

Heart-Related Issues

• Arrhythmia:

  • See a Cardiologist: It's important to consult a cardiologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend an EKG or Holter monitor to diagnose any arrhythmias.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, as these can trigger palpitations. Ensure you stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.

• Hypertension:

  • Monitor Blood Pressure: Keep a daily log of your blood pressure readings and share them with your doctor.
  • Medication Adherence: Take your Lisinopril as prescribed and discuss with your doctor if your blood pressure remains high. They may need to adjust your dosage or add another medication.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Reduce salt intake, exercise regularly, and manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

Autonomic Dysfunction

• POTS:
  • Increase Fluid and Salt Intake: Drink plenty of water and consider increasing your salt intake (under your doctor's guidance) to help manage symptoms.
  • Compression Stockings: Wearing compression stockings can help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.

Other Considerations

• Anxiety or Panic Attacks:
  • Mental Health Support: Consider speaking with a mental health professional to explore if anxiety or panic attacks could be contributing to your symptoms.
  • Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress.

What you should look out for

Given the severity and frequency of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Severe Chest Pain: If you experience severe chest pain that radiates to your arm, neck, or jaw, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Fainting: If you experience fainting or near-fainting episodes, consult a doctor promptly.
• Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or become more frequent, contact your healthcare provider.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You can also use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.