Dizziness, Nausea, and Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Solutions - Psychiatry

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Dizziness, nausea, and increased heart rate?


Hello, doctor.
About a month ago, I went to the hospital due to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and an increased heart rate.
I underwent blood tests, an electrocardiogram, and X-rays, and the doctor said everything was fine.
However, there was a bit of excess gas in my gastrointestinal tract, so I was prescribed medication for bloating, which helped a lot.
The doctor also mentioned that my other discomforts might be related to my lifestyle or emotional factors.
Recently, I have experienced dizziness, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat again, but it only happens about once or twice a day, and each episode lasts only a few seconds or minutes.
These symptoms occur only when I am lying down or sitting, and I feel much better if I stand up and walk around.
For instance, I worked for nine hours standing the other day and felt completely fine; it seems to happen more often when I'm not active.
I'm wondering if this could be related to my lack of exercise or if it's truly due to my lifestyle or emotional state.
I don't feel like I'm under significant stress or have any emotional issues, but my routine is not very regular.
Additionally, I have been using a period tracking app, which indicates that my period is ten days late, so I'm a bit concerned.
Thank you for your help!

Mingming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/25

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry


Hello, Mingming: May I ask if there have been any changes in your life over the past month? For example, changes in your daily routine or sleep patterns, or any distressing events? Generally speaking, if you are experiencing physical discomfort but cannot identify the cause, it is important to consider psychological factors.
You mentioned that your routine is not very regular; could you elaborate on what is irregular about it? If these physical discomforts have arisen due to changes in your routine, you might try to readjust it.
Ideally, aim for an early bedtime and wake-up time, ensuring adequate sleep, and avoid staying up late or having an irregular sleep schedule, as this may help alleviate your physical discomfort.
Additionally, has your menstrual cycle always been regular? If it has been regular but is now significantly delayed, it would be advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Lastly, regular exercise is beneficial for improving physical health, and developing a consistent exercise routine will certainly be advantageous for your body.
Wishing you health and peace!

Reply Date: 2020/10/25

More Info


Dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat can be concerning symptoms that often lead individuals to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems that you have already undergone a thorough evaluation, including blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and X-rays, which returned normal results. The physician's conclusion that your symptoms may be related to gastrointestinal issues, particularly excess gas, is a reasonable interpretation, especially since you reported improvement after taking medication for bloating.

However, the recurrence of your symptoms—specifically dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat—suggests that there may be additional factors at play. The fact that these episodes occur primarily when you are lying down or sitting, and improve with movement, could indicate a few possibilities:
1. Postural Changes: When you transition from a lying or sitting position to standing, your body must adjust blood flow to maintain balance and prevent dizziness. If you are not moving around much, your body may not be as accustomed to these changes, leading to symptoms when you do stand up.

2. Dehydration or Low Blood Sugar: If you are not eating or drinking adequately, this can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels and dehydration, both of which can cause dizziness and rapid heartbeat. It’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, especially if you have a busy work schedule.

3. Anxiety and Stress: Even if you do not feel overtly stressed, underlying anxiety can manifest physically. Rapid heartbeat and dizziness can be symptoms of anxiety, especially if they occur in conjunction with feelings of nausea. It may be beneficial to explore relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices to help manage any potential anxiety.

4. Hormonal Changes: Since you mentioned a delay in your menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations could also contribute to your symptoms. Hormonal changes can affect various bodily functions, including mood, digestion, and cardiovascular responses. If your menstrual cycle is irregular, it may be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

5. Lack of Physical Activity: You noted that you have not been very active lately. Regular physical activity is crucial for cardiovascular health and can help regulate heart rate and improve overall well-being. Engaging in moderate exercise, even walking or light stretching, can enhance circulation and reduce symptoms of dizziness and nausea.

Given that your symptoms have not worsened significantly and are manageable with movement, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If they become more frequent, severe, or are accompanied by other concerning signs (such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting), you should seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while your initial evaluations did not reveal any significant health issues, the recurrence of your symptoms suggests that lifestyle factors, including physical activity, hydration, diet, and possibly hormonal changes, could be contributing to your experience. It may be beneficial to incorporate regular exercise into your routine, maintain a balanced diet, and manage stress effectively. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider revisiting your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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