Recent Symptoms: Palpitations, Weight Loss, and More

I have been experiencing some symptoms recently?

I have recently experienced some symptoms including occasional palpitations, rapid heartbeat after work or jogging that persists even after resting, chest tightness, tinnitus, and difficulty with bowel movements (even with soft stools, it still feels difficult).
However, there are times when this is not the case.
Recently, I have also noticed a trend of weight loss from 74 kg to 70 kg within a month, forgetfulness, insomnia, or waking up easily.
For example, I used to sweat profusely at 29 degrees Celsius, but recently I feel less hot and have noticeably reduced sweating.
My skin is prone to itching, I wake up with dry mouth, my stomach makes gurgling sounds, I experience frequent burping, and I have dry eyes.
These symptoms have gradually appeared over the past month.
Due to the continuous weight loss, I am concerned about possible diseases related to the colon.
I have undergone an immunochemical fecal occult blood test, and the report came back normal.
I would like to ask the physician how accurate the immunochemical fecal occult blood test is.
Is it possible that these symptoms are caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction?

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/05/30

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, based on your description, many of the symptoms are quite non-specific, and indeed some symptoms require clarification of their causes.
It is still recommended to visit a hospital for further evaluation by a physician, or you may consider arranging a self-paid comprehensive health check-up.
Thank you for your message, and we care about you at Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2014/05/30

More Info

Based on your description of recent symptoms, including palpitations, weight loss, forgetfulness, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues, it is understandable to be concerned about your health. The combination of these symptoms can indeed suggest a variety of underlying issues, and it's essential to approach this systematically.

Firstly, the weight loss from 74 kg to 70 kg within a month, especially if it is unintentional, is noteworthy. Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of several conditions, including hyperthyroidism, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, or even malignancies. Since you mentioned that you have undergone a stool occult blood test with normal results, this rules out significant gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a positive sign. However, it does not completely eliminate the possibility of other gastrointestinal issues, such as malabsorption syndromes or inflammatory bowel disease.

The symptoms of palpitations and chest tightness, particularly after physical exertion, could be related to several factors. Stress and anxiety can lead to increased heart rates and palpitations, especially if you are experiencing emotional distress or changes in your lifestyle. Additionally, dehydration or electrolyte imbalances can also contribute to these symptoms. Given that you mentioned a decrease in sweating and feeling less hot than usual, it may be worth considering if there are changes in your hydration status or overall health.

Your mention of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as irregular bowel movements and frequent burping, could indicate a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. The fact that you are experiencing dry mouth and itchy skin may also suggest dehydration or an issue with your body's ability to regulate moisture, possibly linked to hormonal changes or autonomic nervous system dysregulation.

Regarding the accuracy of the immunochemical fecal occult blood test, it is generally considered a reliable screening tool for detecting hidden blood in the stool, which can indicate colorectal issues. However, it is not definitive for diagnosing all gastrointestinal diseases. If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your gastrointestinal health, further evaluation, such as a colonoscopy or imaging studies, may be warranted.

As for the possibility of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, it is indeed plausible. The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and sweating. Stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors can disrupt this balance, leading to symptoms like palpitations, gastrointestinal disturbances, and changes in sweating patterns.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. It would be advisable to consult with a primary care physician or a specialist, such as a cardiologist for your heart-related symptoms and a gastroenterologist for your gastrointestinal concerns. They may recommend blood tests, imaging studies, or other diagnostic procedures to better understand the underlying causes of your symptoms. Additionally, addressing lifestyle factors, such as stress management, hydration, and nutrition, may also play a crucial role in your overall health and symptom management.

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