Unexplained Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health

I've been experiencing unusual health conditions for a while and I'm unsure whether I should seek medical attention?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I have been experiencing some symptoms that I am unsure are due to psychological stress or a viral infection.
My condition fluctuates, and it doesn't seem like a cold.
I have been uncertain whether I should seek medical attention.
I have been researching various information online and suspect that my symptoms might be related to significant lifestyle changes due to a virus (my work has been severely affected), possibly leading to autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
However, I am worried that if it is not the case, delaying treatment could be detrimental.
I am also concerned about the risk of infection and hesitant to go to the hospital.
My recent symptoms are as follows:
- On March 15: chest tightness, poor sleep, a sense of unreality, fatigue, and dryness in my throat and tongue (I feel cold air directly reaching my throat when I inhale).
- On March 16: chest tightness, occasional chest pain during the day (about 3-4 times), poor sleep, a sense of unreality, fatigue, and dryness in my throat and tongue.
- From March 17 to 20: chest tightness, poor sleep, a sense of unreality, fatigue, and dryness in my throat and tongue.
- From March 20 to 24: chest tightness, poor sleep, waking up suddenly a few times at night (gasping), difficulty breathing, and frequent burping.
- On April 1-2: I occasionally feel a small bubble of air moving upward in my chest, and chest tightness slightly improves with stretching and light activities at home (but discomfort returns when I am still).
- These symptoms continued until April 3, when I felt a bit better, but I started experiencing diarrhea in the mornings (not severe pain or discomfort, just 1-2 times, but this has repeated every morning for several days).
- From April 3 to 9: mild diarrhea in the mornings, chest tightness persists but is slightly better than before (I took gastric medication for three consecutive days).
- On April 7-8: when I am still, I can feel my heartbeat thumping (measured at about 85 beats per minute, which is normal, with no other symptoms).
However, I have not had any obvious cold symptoms like a runny nose or cough, and my axillary temperature has consistently been around 35-36.5°C.
I would like to ask what might be causing these symptoms and which specialty I should consult.
I apologize for bothering you, and thank you very much.

Ms. Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/09

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, it is recommended that you first consult your family physician for a basic evaluation.
If there are specific issues, you can be referred to other specialty clinics.
It is important to maintain a regular routine, ensure a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and get sufficient sleep.
Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/04/09

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of distressing symptoms that are causing you significant concern. Based on the symptoms you've described, including chest tightness, sleep disturbances, feelings of unreality, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues, it is crucial to approach this situation with care and seek appropriate medical advice.

First and foremost, it's important to recognize that your symptoms could stem from a variety of causes, including psychological stress, anxiety, or even a physical health issue. The interplay between mental and physical health is well-documented; stress and anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms, and conversely, physical health issues can lead to increased anxiety and stress. This is often referred to as psychosomatic illness, where psychological factors contribute to physical symptoms.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to start by consulting a primary care physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests, to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal problems could potentially explain some of your symptoms.
If your primary care physician determines that there are no significant physical health issues, they may refer you to a mental health professional. Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder, can present with symptoms like chest tightness, sleep disturbances, and feelings of unreality. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective treatment for anxiety disorders, helping individuals to identify and challenge irrational thoughts and develop coping strategies.

In the meantime, there are several self-care strategies you can implement to help manage your symptoms:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall sense of well-being.

2. Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise can significantly improve mood and reduce anxiety. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

3. Healthy Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine before bedtime can help improve sleep quality.

4. Balanced Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support both physical and mental health.

5. Limit Information Overload: If you find yourself frequently searching for information about your symptoms online, consider limiting this behavior. It can often lead to increased anxiety and misinformation.

6. Social Support: Reach out to friends or family members who can provide emotional support. Sometimes, just talking about your feelings can alleviate some of the burden.

7. Journaling: Keeping a journal of your thoughts and feelings can help you process your emotions and identify patterns in your anxiety.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience any new symptoms such as severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires urgent care.

In summary, while your symptoms are understandably concerning, there are steps you can take to address them. Start with a visit to your primary care physician, who can guide you through the process of diagnosis and treatment. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you do not have to navigate this alone.

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