Chest tightness, difficulty breathing, bloating, and dizziness?
I have been experiencing a sensation of tightness in my chest when taking deep breaths, along with stomach bloating and pain that becomes unbearable before bed and upon waking.
A week ago, I visited a pulmonologist due to chest tightness and dizziness, and the doctor couldn't determine the cause.
At that time, my temperature was measured at 38.4°C, indicating a fever.
I was prescribed medication to take four times a day, but my condition did not improve; instead, my stomach discomfort worsened, leading to bloating and pain.
Three days later, I returned for a follow-up appointment, and the doctor measured my temperature again, which was still 38.4°C.
The doctor suspected it might be influenza type A, as the fever seemed to fluctuate.
A new prescription was provided.
The next morning, I woke up feeling weak and went to an ENT specialist for a self-paid test for influenza type A (since I wasn't feverish at that time, I had to pay out of pocket).
The test results showed that I do not have the flu.
The doctor advised me to continue taking the medication prescribed by the internist, but I feel like my symptoms are inconsistent.
I would like to know which specialist I should consult for these persistent symptoms.
I am a 23-year-old female and have been feeling extremely unwell since last week, experiencing dizziness, headaches, fever, difficulty breathing, nausea, bloating, muscle soreness, and a sore throat.
It has been confirmed that it is neither COVID-19 nor influenza (and since I took antipyretics, I couldn't get tested for free).
Even the doctors are puzzled about my condition.
Could this just be a common illness? However, it feels too severe.
The worst times are when I wake up and before I go to sleep; I wake up with muscle soreness all over and can hardly move, and before bed, my stomach is so bloated that I can't sleep, and even breathing causes pain to the point of tears.
Could this be related to having had COVID-19 last year? Are these symptoms possibly a combination of long COVID and a cold?
lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/01
Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology
Hello: According to the content, it is advisable to visit a regional-level hospital or higher for consultation and treatment by a physician.
Reply Date: 2023/06/01
More Info
I'm sorry to hear about your ongoing health issues. It sounds like you're experiencing a complex set of symptoms that are causing you significant distress. Let's break down your situation and explore possible avenues for understanding and managing your symptoms.
Understanding Your Symptoms
From your description, you are experiencing a combination of chest pain, gastrointestinal distress (such as bloating and discomfort), fever, and other systemic symptoms like muscle aches and headaches. These symptoms can be quite challenging to diagnose, especially when they overlap with various conditions.
1. Chest Pain: This can arise from various sources, including gastrointestinal issues (like acid reflux or gastritis), musculoskeletal problems, or even anxiety. Given that you mentioned feeling a sensation of something "stuck" in your chest, it could be related to esophageal spasms or reflux.
2. Gastrointestinal Distress: Symptoms like bloating and discomfort can be associated with several gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, or functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these symptoms, leading to a cycle of discomfort.
3. Fever and Systemic Symptoms: The presence of a fever (38.4°C) suggests that there may be an underlying infection or inflammatory process. Since you tested negative for influenza, it’s essential to consider other viral infections or even bacterial infections that could be causing these symptoms.
4. Post-COVID Considerations: Given your history of COVID-19, it's worth noting that some individuals experience lingering symptoms, often referred to as "long COVID." These can include fatigue, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal issues, which may overlap with your current symptoms.
Recommendations for Further Evaluation
Given the complexity of your symptoms, here are some steps you might consider:
1. Follow-Up with a Primary Care Physician: Since your symptoms are multifaceted, a primary care physician can help coordinate your care and may refer you to specialists as needed. They can also perform a thorough review of your medical history and current symptoms.
2. Gastroenterology Consultation: Since you're experiencing significant gastrointestinal symptoms, a gastroenterologist can evaluate you for conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, or functional gastrointestinal disorders. They may recommend tests such as an upper endoscopy or imaging studies to assess your digestive tract.
3. Cardiology Evaluation: If your chest pain persists, it may be prudent to consult a cardiologist to rule out any cardiac issues, especially if you have risk factors or a family history of heart disease.
4. Infectious Disease Specialist: If your fever and systemic symptoms continue, an infectious disease specialist can help identify any underlying infections that may not have been detected in initial evaluations.
5. Mental Health Support: Given the stress and anxiety that often accompany chronic health issues, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They can provide strategies to manage anxiety and stress, which may help alleviate some of your physical symptoms.
Self-Management Strategies
While you seek further medical evaluation, here are some self-management strategies that may help alleviate your symptoms:
- Dietary Adjustments: Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that can exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help.
- Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated, as dehydration can worsen fatigue and muscle aches.
- Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga to help manage stress.
- Rest: Prioritize rest and sleep, as your body needs time to recover from illness.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare providers.
Conclusion
Your symptoms are concerning and warrant thorough investigation. While it can be frustrating to navigate the healthcare system, persistence is key. Continue to advocate for yourself and seek the appropriate specialists who can help you find answers. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are healthcare professionals who can assist you in managing your symptoms effectively.
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