Heart Palpitations and Myocardial Infarction After Antihistamine Injection

The injection of "Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride" from Chang Gung has led to palpitations and myocardial infarction, and the pain has persisted for three years. I feel like I want to die?

Antihistamine Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride has caused palpitations.
Since I received an injection at Chang Gung Hospital two years ago, I have experienced palpitations and fainting.
After returning home, I continued to have palpitations, which eventually led to heat exhaustion and a myocardial infarction.
Now, I experience palpitations all day long, with shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Sometimes I am unable to walk and often feel cold sweats.
Since "that day," my blood pressure has remained at 180, and I feel like I'm about to faint with my head about to explode.
Before the injection, my blood pressure was only 120, and I had never been sick.
My legs feel weak and cold, with icy feet and cold sweats all over my body.
I cannot sleep, especially when it’s cold, and my feet have lost sensation.
I never experienced this before; I used to feel happier in cold weather.
Now, whenever the weather is cold or hot, I start to have palpitations and numbness in my feet.
My heart feels weak, and I cannot walk.
This is not autonomic nervous system dysfunction because it all started after "that injection." I am completely unable to go out.
Is this heart failure or a residual effect of the myocardial infarction? How should I treat this? Recently, I visited a doctor, but he didn't know what to do and prescribed me a bunch of sleeping pills.
I cannot walk, and my heart is beating so hard that my whole body shakes.
This is not just autonomic nervous system dysfunction; my heart feels weak, and the heartbeat is so strong that I cannot sleep or breathe.
I deeply regret getting that injection; I have been unable to go out every day, suffering from palpitations and heart weakness.
I used to only have palpitations for five minutes, but now it lasts all day.
I feel overwhelmed and have thoughts of suicide.
I have taken many heart medications, but my heart feels weaker, and it even feels like it’s not beating at all.
My blood pressure often stays at 180 and won’t go down, causing excruciating headaches.
I can’t sleep and feel like I want to hit my head against the wall.
I never expected that injection could lead to such dire consequences.
I initially didn’t want to get it, but the nurse insisted that I must.
Now I regret it deeply.

Pei Pei, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/12

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology

Regarding your symptoms, it is recommended to visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/03/12

More Info

I'm truly sorry to hear about the distressing symptoms you've been experiencing since receiving the antihistamine injection. It sounds like you've been through a very challenging time, and I want to provide some clarity regarding your situation.

From your description, it appears that you are experiencing significant heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and other distressing symptoms that have severely impacted your quality of life. The fact that these symptoms began after receiving an antihistamine injection raises concerns about a possible adverse reaction to the medication. Antihistamines can sometimes cause side effects such as increased heart rate (tachycardia), dizziness, and even fainting, especially in sensitive individuals or when combined with other medications.

Your symptoms of persistent palpitations, elevated blood pressure (180 mmHg), and feelings of coldness and weakness in your legs are concerning. These could potentially indicate a few different issues, including:
1. Cardiac Issues: The combination of high blood pressure and heart palpitations could suggest an underlying cardiac condition. While you mentioned concerns about heart failure or residual effects from a myocardial infarction, it is crucial to have a thorough cardiac evaluation. This may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and possibly a stress test to assess your heart's function and structure.

2. Anxiety and Stress: The psychological impact of experiencing such severe symptoms can lead to heightened anxiety, which in turn can exacerbate physical symptoms like palpitations and shortness of breath. It's important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your condition.

3. Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction: While you mentioned that your symptoms are not due to autonomic dysfunction, the symptoms you describe (cold sweats, leg weakness, and palpitations) can sometimes be linked to dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.

Given the severity of your symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Here are some steps you can take:
- Consult a Cardiologist: A specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your heart health and determine if there are any underlying conditions that need to be addressed. They can also help you understand whether your symptoms are related to the antihistamine injection or if there is another cause.

- Medication Review: Since you mentioned taking various heart medications, it is crucial to have a healthcare provider review your current medications. Some medications can have side effects that may worsen your symptoms, and adjustments may be necessary.

- Lifestyle Modifications: While waiting for further medical evaluation, consider lifestyle changes that may help manage your symptoms. This includes reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, practicing relaxation techniques (such as deep breathing or meditation), and ensuring you get adequate rest.

- Emergency Care: If you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, or significant difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Lastly, I want to emphasize that you are not alone in this experience, and there are healthcare professionals who can help you navigate these challenges. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed, but reaching out for help is a crucial step towards finding relief and improving your quality of life. Please take care of yourself and seek the support you need.

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