Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help

Dear Sir：<br>1. <br>Many hospitals have established integrated outpatient clinics for COVID-19 survivors; therefore, you can look for a nearby hospital that is suitable for your treatment to address your concerns.<br>2. <br>Your description may indicate "autonomic nervous system

Vaccination and Symptoms After Confirmed COVID-19 Infection

Hello Doctor, in mid-April of this year, after receiving the third dose of the Moderna vaccine, I occasionally experienced symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations.
After undergoing an emergency department evaluation that included an electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiogram, no abnormalities were found.
I subsequently consulted a psychiatrist who suggested that it might be autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
After taking serotonin medication for a month, my symptoms improved significantly but did not completely resolve, and I have since stopped taking the medication.

In mid-June of this year, I tested positive for COVID-19.
On the second day after my diagnosis, I went to the emergency department due to increased heart rate and slight tremors in my hands and feet.
After an ECG and blood tests, no abnormalities were found, except for a heart rate over 100 bpm.
The doctor advised me to rest at home.
During those days, I also experienced chest tightness, palpitations, and difficulty breathing.

Ten days after completing isolation, I occasionally felt significant pain in the upper middle part of my left back (especially while riding my bike), but it subsided with rest.
Recently, during periods of rest, I have experienced occasional chest tightness, palpitations, back pain, and difficulty breathing.
I have also been feeling fatigued easily, and there was one episode that lasted about 15 minutes, during which I felt slightly breathless and trembled.

I would like to ask which specialty I should consult for further evaluation or what I should pay attention to.
Thank you.

Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/30

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Sir:
1.
Many hospitals have established integrated outpatient clinics for COVID-19 survivors; therefore, you can look for a nearby hospital that is suitable for your treatment to address your concerns.
2.
Your description may indicate "autonomic nervous system dysfunction"; however, there are other issues that need clarification, so a definitive diagnosis cannot be provided immediately.
3.
Please avoid excessive consumption of coffee or tea, as this may help alleviate symptoms such as chest tightness, palpitations, and shortness of breath.

Reply Date: 2022/06/30

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms following your vaccination and subsequent COVID-19 infection. It's important to address these symptoms carefully, as they can be indicative of various underlying issues that may require medical attention.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe—chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, and back pain—are significant and warrant further evaluation. While you have undergone several tests (ECG, chest X-ray, echocardiogram) that returned normal results, the persistence of your symptoms suggests that further investigation may be necessary.
Given your history of anxiety and autonomic nervous system dysregulation, it is possible that some of your symptoms could be related to anxiety or stress, especially in the context of your recent COVID-19 diagnosis. However, it is crucial not to dismiss the possibility of other medical conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.
Here are some recommendations on what to do next:
1. Follow-Up with a Primary Care Physician: It would be beneficial to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician (PCP) or a general practitioner. They can conduct a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine if further testing is needed.
2. Consider a Referral to a Specialist: Depending on the findings from your PCP, you may be referred to a cardiologist for further evaluation of your heart symptoms or a pulmonologist if your breathing issues persist. Additionally, a neurologist may be consulted if there are concerns about neurological symptoms, especially given your experiences of shaking and feeling faint.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: While awaiting further evaluation, consider implementing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or gentle exercise, which can help manage anxiety and improve overall well-being. Ensure you are getting adequate rest and maintaining a balanced diet.

5. Emergency Signs: Be vigilant for any worsening of symptoms, such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting. If you experience these, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

6. Vaccination Considerations: If you have concerns about your symptoms being related to the vaccine, discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on the safety of future vaccinations and any potential need for monitoring.

7. Mental Health Support: Given your history of anxiety and the stress associated with COVID-19, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can help you develop coping strategies and address any psychological impacts of your physical symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to anxiety or stress, it is essential to rule out any serious underlying conditions. A thorough evaluation by your healthcare provider will help clarify the situation and guide you toward appropriate treatment. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a crucial step toward recovery.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sudden Mood Swings and Self-Harm: When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing sudden mood swings where I start hitting my own head and slapping my face, even though there's nothing specific making me unhappy. When others see this, they just laugh, which makes me feel even worse. I want to ask the do...

Dr. Li Guanying reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress. If these symptoms have appeared suddenly, it is important to consider whether they are related to a COVID-19 infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines...

Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?

Hello Doctor, I contracted COVID-19 two months ago, experiencing symptoms such as cough, sore throat, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, and difficulty breathing. I did not seek medical attention during that time. After recovering (with a negative rapid test), I suddenly lost ...

Dr. Hou Angting reply Family Medicine
Hello: After being infected with COVID-19, some individuals may experience discomforting symptoms. It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get the COVID-19 Vaccine After Experiencing Tetanus Shot Side Effects?

Hello, doctor. Over ten years ago, I had a finger laceration that required suturing. At that time, I received a tetanus shot, and a few minutes after the injection, I began to feel fatigued, my eyelids felt heavy, and I was close to falling asleep. I experienced shortness of brea...

Dr. Chen Jianfang reply Pharmacology
Hello, the precautions for COVID-19 vaccination are as follows: 1. Individuals with fever or those currently suffering from acute moderate to severe illness should wait until their condition stabilizes before receiving the vaccine. 2. It is not recommended to receive the COVID-19...

Concerns About COVID-19 Transmission After a Medical Visit

Hello, I had dinner around 5:30 PM after class, and it seems that I got a fishbone stuck in my throat from eating tilapia. My family took me to an ENT clinic, and after the examination, the doctor said he couldn't see anything, suggesting that I might have vomited it out aft...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, after a COVID-19 infection, there is typically an incubation period of about 2 to 7 days, so it is unlikely for symptoms to appear that quickly. In the clinic, if everyone is wearing masks and there is no direct contact, the risk of transmission should be very low. It is r...