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Having Nausea, Light-headedness, Constant Hunger, Heart Palpitation, Shortness Of Breath. Is This Anxiety?
Question: Hello. I have had ongoing health issues for about a year (nausea, lightheadedness, symptoms similar to hypoglycemia- constant hunger, lightheadedness if I don't eat for 2 hours or so, etc) and seem to be healthy according to my doctors. So the symptoms may be caused by chronic anxiety/stress. I started NuvaRing exactly a week ago and as of yesterday I've been getting some spells of heart palpitations and very slight shortness of breath... is there any way this could be a side effect? It doesn't happen when I'm feeling obviously anxious, it's more random, and it usually happens after eating but I eat very frequently so there may not be a connection. Thanks!
Hi XXXXXXX
Yes, it is possible that the spells of heart palpitations and shortness of breath could be a side effect of NuvaRing in you.
It does seem to me as a random occurrence as well. You might consider stopping its usage. I assume you have gone through the safety information of NuvaRing on health.
Make sure you have none of the disorders that slow down the circulation especially a Deep vein thrombosis. You must be aware that one cannot smoke while on NuvaRing.
Get an ECG done at your doctor's office to make sure that all is fine with your heart.
Write back to me if you have more concerns. I would be more than happy to help.
Take care!
Yes, it is possible that the spells of heart palpitations and shortness of breath could be a side effect of NuvaRing in you.
It does seem to me as a random occurrence as well. You might consider stopping its usage. I assume you have gone through the safety information of NuvaRing on health.
Make sure you have none of the disorders that slow down the circulation especially a Deep vein thrombosis. You must be aware that one cannot smoke while on NuvaRing.
Get an ECG done at your doctor's office to make sure that all is fine with your heart.
Write back to me if you have more concerns. I would be more than happy to help.
Take care!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Okay, thank you.
I have also been having symptoms very similar to hypogylcemia, I get lightheaded if I go about two hours without food, less if it's not something really filling, or about 3 hours if it's something with a lot of protein and fiber. I even felt like I had a hypoglycemic reaction to alcohol... I drank two glasses of wine a couple weeks ago (hadn't drink in about a year) and I was eating food and spaced them apart but it made me really tired, weak, and lightheaded. Eating sugar makes me feel tired and lightheaded too, and sometimes I get lightheaded and weak after a large meal, like my legs will feel like they're getting weak. I have checked my blood sugar when I have the symptoms and it's always normal. My fasting blood sugar was 95 which is normal, so I can't figure out what is causing these symptoms.
I have also been having symptoms very similar to hypogylcemia, I get lightheaded if I go about two hours without food, less if it's not something really filling, or about 3 hours if it's something with a lot of protein and fiber. I even felt like I had a hypoglycemic reaction to alcohol... I drank two glasses of wine a couple weeks ago (hadn't drink in about a year) and I was eating food and spaced them apart but it made me really tired, weak, and lightheaded. Eating sugar makes me feel tired and lightheaded too, and sometimes I get lightheaded and weak after a large meal, like my legs will feel like they're getting weak. I have checked my blood sugar when I have the symptoms and it's always normal. My fasting blood sugar was 95 which is normal, so I can't figure out what is causing these symptoms.
Thanks for writing back.
You must understand that the body gets into work after every meal i.e. the ingested food has to be digested. For this, a lot of energy is required. Therefore, the metabolic process goes up. You must give some time for the body to do this process.
Also, after every meal, the blood supply to the intestines increase and that to the brain is slightly reduced. This may be the cause of light-headedness.
But, if this happens more often and in increasing intensity, there must be a problem. You probably need to work on your diet. Chart a careful diet plan. Look at the foods that make you more lightheaded. Change your diet in consultation with a dietitian.
A gluten hypersensitivity is a rare possibility in you.
However, there may be other causes for your symptoms like an ENT problem, or a cause within your brain.
I am glad that the blood sugars are always normal.
My suggestion to you would be to watch your symptoms for a while, look for fresh symptoms like headaches, altered bowel habits.
There is no necessity for investigations at this point.
Hope this helps you. Wish you complete recovery and a good health.
Regards,
You must understand that the body gets into work after every meal i.e. the ingested food has to be digested. For this, a lot of energy is required. Therefore, the metabolic process goes up. You must give some time for the body to do this process.
Also, after every meal, the blood supply to the intestines increase and that to the brain is slightly reduced. This may be the cause of light-headedness.
But, if this happens more often and in increasing intensity, there must be a problem. You probably need to work on your diet. Chart a careful diet plan. Look at the foods that make you more lightheaded. Change your diet in consultation with a dietitian.
A gluten hypersensitivity is a rare possibility in you.
However, there may be other causes for your symptoms like an ENT problem, or a cause within your brain.
I am glad that the blood sugars are always normal.
My suggestion to you would be to watch your symptoms for a while, look for fresh symptoms like headaches, altered bowel habits.
There is no necessity for investigations at this point.
Hope this helps you. Wish you complete recovery and a good health.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks. I know most people do get tired after meals and I always did but not to this extreme, I get lightheaded and just do not feel well at all. But I'm more concerned with the fact that I have to eat really frequently, like every two hours, or I will start to feel really faint, shaky, jittery, etc. like someone with hypoglycemia, while my blood sugar is normal. I am trying to go on a gluten-free diet to see if it helps, I've been on it for about a week and so far seem to be feeling slightly better.
I really just have a sense of malaise a lot of the time, especially around mid afternoon. It's kind of a foggy, lightheaded, tired kind of feeling. Could this just be anxiety related?
I really just have a sense of malaise a lot of the time, especially around mid afternoon. It's kind of a foggy, lightheaded, tired kind of feeling. Could this just be anxiety related?
Hi XXXXXXX
It could be anxiety related. But are you anxious all the time, that every two hours you feel the symptoms?
Also, you have mentioned only about your fasting blood sugar of 95. Please repeat the test with complete details including FBS, PPBS, HbA1C, and GTT. This is the complete panel of tests for blood sugar testing.
You may have an underactive thyroid or Hypothyroidism as you have malaise a lot of the time. It would be worthwhile to get your thyroid function tested as well that includes T3, T4 and TSH.
Lastly, please get your hemoglobin levels tested too.
If all of these are normal, then we can label your symptoms as anxiety related.
Hope this helps you. Take care and get well soon.
It could be anxiety related. But are you anxious all the time, that every two hours you feel the symptoms?
Also, you have mentioned only about your fasting blood sugar of 95. Please repeat the test with complete details including FBS, PPBS, HbA1C, and GTT. This is the complete panel of tests for blood sugar testing.
You may have an underactive thyroid or Hypothyroidism as you have malaise a lot of the time. It would be worthwhile to get your thyroid function tested as well that includes T3, T4 and TSH.
Lastly, please get your hemoglobin levels tested too.
If all of these are normal, then we can label your symptoms as anxiety related.
Hope this helps you. Take care and get well soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I don't feel overtly anxious all the time but I have been told by doctors that chronic anxiety can cause more chronic symptoms.
I haven't had the GTT or A1C, but I have tested my blood sugar when I have the symptoms and it is usually 80-100 about two hours after eating, when I start to get the symptoms.
My thyroid is normal and I was actually borderline hyperthyroid for a while, but now it is more normal. My TSH is 0.71 (was 0.34 in December) and my free T4 is 1.14 (was 1.44). Hemoglobin levels are normal.
I haven't had the GTT or A1C, but I have tested my blood sugar when I have the symptoms and it is usually 80-100 about two hours after eating, when I start to get the symptoms.
My thyroid is normal and I was actually borderline hyperthyroid for a while, but now it is more normal. My TSH is 0.71 (was 0.34 in December) and my free T4 is 1.14 (was 1.44). Hemoglobin levels are normal.
Yes, chronic anxiety can lead to chronic symptoms.
Blood sugar levels of 80 to 100 two hours post food is low. It means you are consuming less food. PPBS (Post Prandial Blood Sugar) normally is around 140mg/dl. Therefore, you must eat full stomach and in adequate quantities.
Good that your thyroid and hemoglobin status are normal.
I would simply say that you eat right, at the right time and full.
Let me know if you have more queries.
Blood sugar levels of 80 to 100 two hours post food is low. It means you are consuming less food. PPBS (Post Prandial Blood Sugar) normally is around 140mg/dl. Therefore, you must eat full stomach and in adequate quantities.
Good that your thyroid and hemoglobin status are normal.
I would simply say that you eat right, at the right time and full.
Let me know if you have more queries.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I feel like eat enough, I eat usually every two hours and have a substantial amount of food at one time. I also seem to have symptoms after consuming sugar, such as lightheadedness, fatigue, and sometimes headache. I ate a lot of sugar last night and actually had symptoms of a hangover this morning. Is the sugar level of 80 to 100 two hours after eating low enough to cause symptoms?
No, the sugar levels are not that low to cause symptoms.
Going by all these, I feel the cause of your lightheadness, fatigue and headache could be something else. Perhaps something related to brain or ENT lesion.
It would be wise to go in for a consultation with a Neurologist about your symptoms.
Regards,
Going by all these, I feel the cause of your lightheadness, fatigue and headache could be something else. Perhaps something related to brain or ENT lesion.
It would be wise to go in for a consultation with a Neurologist about your symptoms.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. The symptoms seem mainly related to when and what I eat so I don't think it's anything neurological. I will experiment with a gluten free diet and see if I improve.
Sure, please go ahead with it.
A neurological cause is just a possibility.
I wish you improve quicker and have a healthy life ahead.
Take care!
A neurological cause is just a possibility.
I wish you improve quicker and have a healthy life ahead.
Take care!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks. I am kind of worried because I am feeling really sick lately, like I was in the summer. It started the day before yesterday, my stomach started hurting and throughout the night I felt more and more lightheaded. I woke up in the middle of the night really hot and feeling kind of dehydrated, so I drank water and went back to sleep. The next day I woke up really weak and shaky and felt weak and sick all day, then at night my stomach started hurting again. I woke up really nauseous and kept going back to sleep and I was feeling weaker and weaker. I feel slightly better now that I ate but I still feel really bad, a lot like I did in the summer when I was really sick. What could this be? I don't think it's a flu or something because I also felt weak and sick in general a couple of weeks ago, just not really this bad.
Hi,
It seems like you are having stomach issues more often. I am doubting a chronic peptic ulcer or even a H. Pyrolus infection in the stomach.
Please get yourself tested for the H. Pylori by a breath urea test or even a upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy.
Meanwhile, start yourself on proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole 20 mg once daily early in the morning on an empty stomach. This is available over the counter in the US.
Continue to drink plenty of water and fruit juices.
Write back for more concerns that you may have. I am sorry for the delay in my response, I was unwell too.
Take care!
It seems like you are having stomach issues more often. I am doubting a chronic peptic ulcer or even a H. Pyrolus infection in the stomach.
Please get yourself tested for the H. Pylori by a breath urea test or even a upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy.
Meanwhile, start yourself on proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole 20 mg once daily early in the morning on an empty stomach. This is available over the counter in the US.
Continue to drink plenty of water and fruit juices.
Write back for more concerns that you may have. I am sorry for the delay in my response, I was unwell too.
Take care!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Okay, thanks so much. I am still feeling really weak... could that be related to a gastritis/stomach inflammation issue?
Hi XXXXXXX
Yes, your symptoms could be mostly related to the gastritis/ stomach inflammation. Please go ahead with the investigations that I spoke of in my earlier reply.
I have read the entire thread again. I possibly see no major health concerns in you except that you are anxious. I do not know the reason for your anxiety. However, you must get rid of this at the earliest. Because, if this continues for long time, then you may develop other anxiety related illnesses too.
You must be perfectly healthy unless there is something terribly wrong within you. I see that most of your reports are normal.
I assume you are leading a fairly normal life, aren't you? Bring something in to your life, a new hobby, a new learning, and relaxation exercises and try to be happy and think positive. I say all these to you because you seem to be too young to suffer this much; you must recover quickly.
Take good care of yourself. Please let me know if there is anything more that you would like to share with me.
Hope your academics are good too.
Yes, your symptoms could be mostly related to the gastritis/ stomach inflammation. Please go ahead with the investigations that I spoke of in my earlier reply.
I have read the entire thread again. I possibly see no major health concerns in you except that you are anxious. I do not know the reason for your anxiety. However, you must get rid of this at the earliest. Because, if this continues for long time, then you may develop other anxiety related illnesses too.
You must be perfectly healthy unless there is something terribly wrong within you. I see that most of your reports are normal.
I assume you are leading a fairly normal life, aren't you? Bring something in to your life, a new hobby, a new learning, and relaxation exercises and try to be happy and think positive. I say all these to you because you seem to be too young to suffer this much; you must recover quickly.
Take good care of yourself. Please let me know if there is anything more that you would like to share with me.
Hope your academics are good too.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks so much. Can anxiety be so bad it causes weakness, almost flu-like symptoms? That's how I feel lately. I haven't been able to have a normal life, I have felt too ill in the last year to really do much. I go to school once a week but miss class if I feel really sick.
Yes, chronic anxiety lasting for more than 6 months can lead to flu-like symptoms.
I am sorry that your normal life is affected to a considerable extent. Please look into something called GET (Graded Exercise Therapy). I feel it may help you largely.
Also, there is no harm in going for a trail of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) in view of your anxiety.
I do not see an absolute need/indication for anti- anxiety medications as of now in you.
I am sorry that your normal life is affected to a considerable extent. Please look into something called GET (Graded Exercise Therapy). I feel it may help you largely.
Also, there is no harm in going for a trail of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) in view of your anxiety.
I do not see an absolute need/indication for anti- anxiety medications as of now in you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks, I appreciate it. I do have a lot of issues with anxiety but I also feel I do have a lot of real symptoms. I am feeling worse today than I have in quite a while, my appetite has been significantly decreased, I'm feeling sick when waking up in the morning like I did over the summer when I was feeling really bad (I got a lot better since then but am now getting worse again). I feel weak all over and my back hurts. I was worried about kidney issues so I went to a clinic and they didn't find an infection but I had a very small amount of blood in my urine. The symptoms are all just getting really scary, especially since I'm so much worse in the last few days.
Hi,
Please do not go in for unnecessary investigations. A small amount of blood in urine is seen in acute illness and is considered normal.
If your appetite is significantly decreased, try to get hospitalized and take a few bottles of IV glucose infusion to make you feel better.
A day’s admission at the hospital would be better and you will have the medical staff take care of you round the clock. When you feel better, you may return home.
Please do not go in for unnecessary investigations. A small amount of blood in urine is seen in acute illness and is considered normal.
If your appetite is significantly decreased, try to get hospitalized and take a few bottles of IV glucose infusion to make you feel better.
A day’s admission at the hospital would be better and you will have the medical staff take care of you round the clock. When you feel better, you may return home.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I'm not sure I feel bad enough to be hospitalized and I don't have any acute illness that I know of. I had a small amount of blood in a bowel movement earlier and still had the lower back pain which kind of worried me, but I think the back pain is either IBS or NuvaRing side effects.
It's just hard for me to believe I don't need to look farther into this when I have had so many symptoms.
It's just hard for me to believe I don't need to look farther into this when I have had so many symptoms.
Hi XXXXXXX
It is still fine if you do not want to be hospitalized.
The back pain is more likely due to the NuvaRing and not IBS.
To diagnose IBS the symptoms must be present for a minimum of 3 months at least. Presence of blood in stools rules out IBS.
I hope you have gotten the NuvaRing removed.
I know it's hard, but you must think positive. Most of the illness decrease in intensity when you think positive.
Studies have shown that chronic diseases improve with patient's improved outlook on life and positive lifestyle changes.
I am with you; you can share your problems anytime with me. I would be glad to help you and wish to see you in perfect health soon.
It is still fine if you do not want to be hospitalized.
The back pain is more likely due to the NuvaRing and not IBS.
To diagnose IBS the symptoms must be present for a minimum of 3 months at least. Presence of blood in stools rules out IBS.
I hope you have gotten the NuvaRing removed.
I know it's hard, but you must think positive. Most of the illness decrease in intensity when you think positive.
Studies have shown that chronic diseases improve with patient's improved outlook on life and positive lifestyle changes.
I am with you; you can share your problems anytime with me. I would be glad to help you and wish to see you in perfect health soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks so much.
I have thought I had IBS before because I have had a lot of issues with bad gas pains. They had gone away for the most part but today I feel gassy, crampy, and nauseous. I did take hydroxyzine last night for anxiety and it can cause constipation so that might be the reason I feel the way I do today. Here is how the issues progressed... In March of 2012 I started feeling a lot more tired and nauseous than usual. I was also belching a lot. In April of 2012 I got a viral illness that lasted a week (it was mainly nausea, vomiting, weakness, and pain in my ribs and back) and I felt better for a couple weeks. Then I started getting dizzy/flushed spells and suddenly got sick again, I started waking up severely nauseous almost every morning and would vomit most of the time, and I was constantly dizzy/lightheaded and also had some gas pains. The vomiting and waking up nauseous tapered off and stopped around October but I still had the other symptoms. The gas pains were getting worse and would get really bad a few times a month, to the point where I could barely move. During this time I was also getting symptoms similar to hypoglycemia and had to eat at least every two hours or I'd get really faint, and this symptom persisted and still persists now. The gas pains stopped being so bad and most of the issues resolved besides the constant need to eat and vague lightheaded feelings. Now I am getting worse again, getting nauseous in the mornings again and having more stomach issues in general.
I have thought I had IBS before because I have had a lot of issues with bad gas pains. They had gone away for the most part but today I feel gassy, crampy, and nauseous. I did take hydroxyzine last night for anxiety and it can cause constipation so that might be the reason I feel the way I do today. Here is how the issues progressed... In March of 2012 I started feeling a lot more tired and nauseous than usual. I was also belching a lot. In April of 2012 I got a viral illness that lasted a week (it was mainly nausea, vomiting, weakness, and pain in my ribs and back) and I felt better for a couple weeks. Then I started getting dizzy/flushed spells and suddenly got sick again, I started waking up severely nauseous almost every morning and would vomit most of the time, and I was constantly dizzy/lightheaded and also had some gas pains. The vomiting and waking up nauseous tapered off and stopped around October but I still had the other symptoms. The gas pains were getting worse and would get really bad a few times a month, to the point where I could barely move. During this time I was also getting symptoms similar to hypoglycemia and had to eat at least every two hours or I'd get really faint, and this symptom persisted and still persists now. The gas pains stopped being so bad and most of the issues resolved besides the constant need to eat and vague lightheaded feelings. Now I am getting worse again, getting nauseous in the mornings again and having more stomach issues in general.
Thanks for the detailed description. That helps me a lot.
I see that your symptoms are more related to upper gastrointestinal tract rather than lower.
To conclude on IBS, you must have abdominal pain or discomfort for at least three days in a month for 3 consecutive months. There should be a frequent change in the frequency and appearance of your stools. In addition, your symptoms should improve after defecation or passing stools. Check if you have these features.
Going by your history of events, it more likely seems like a chronic peptic ulcer or H. Pylori infection.
That is why I ask you to get an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy done or a breath test for H. Pylori.
Please get this done.
Write back to me about your progress.
I see that your symptoms are more related to upper gastrointestinal tract rather than lower.
To conclude on IBS, you must have abdominal pain or discomfort for at least three days in a month for 3 consecutive months. There should be a frequent change in the frequency and appearance of your stools. In addition, your symptoms should improve after defecation or passing stools. Check if you have these features.
Going by your history of events, it more likely seems like a chronic peptic ulcer or H. Pylori infection.
That is why I ask you to get an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy done or a breath test for H. Pylori.
Please get this done.
Write back to me about your progress.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks!
I had the finger-stick blood test for h pylori over the summer and it was negative, is the breath test more accurate? And I never have really had much of the pain associated with an ulcer, the only really painful thing I've had is the gas pain.
I had the finger-stick blood test for h pylori over the summer and it was negative, is the breath test more accurate? And I never have really had much of the pain associated with an ulcer, the only really painful thing I've had is the gas pain.
Yes, a breath test would be more accurate combined with an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Since the only painful symptom is the gas pain, IBS is ruled out.
I hope you have started yourself on Omeprazole 20mg capsule.
Regards.
Since the only painful symptom is the gas pain, IBS is ruled out.
I hope you have started yourself on Omeprazole 20mg capsule.
Regards.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks. Would an ulcer or h pylori always cause the burning pain? because I don't usually have that, only the nausea and gas. I have been taking ranitidine (Zantac) 150mg as of last night. Is that effective or is omeprazole better?
Yes, the ulcer or H.Pylori can cause the burning pain. Both can also cause nausea and gas.
Zantac is a good medication but omeprazole is better. Omeprazole is more effective than Zantac.
Take care. Drink plenty of fluids.
Zantac is a good medication but omeprazole is better. Omeprazole is more effective than Zantac.
Take care. Drink plenty of fluids.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Is it common to have an ulcer or h pylori without a lot of pain? Thanks
Yes, it is common to have an ulcer or H.Pylori without a lot of pain. This is the reason why many cases go undiagnosed or detected in later stages.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you.
I thought I was feeling better in the last couple days but my digestive system feels very crampy and tight. There is cramping and tightness in my whole abdomen and back. It got slightly better with a bowel movement but it's been making me feel uncomfortable, weak, and lightheaded. I took hydroxyzine for anxiety which can cause constipation (I have been having bowel movements but I feel like my digestion is slowed down) and the Zantac/omeprazole. Could these medications cause these issues?
I thought I was feeling better in the last couple days but my digestive system feels very crampy and tight. There is cramping and tightness in my whole abdomen and back. It got slightly better with a bowel movement but it's been making me feel uncomfortable, weak, and lightheaded. I took hydroxyzine for anxiety which can cause constipation (I have been having bowel movements but I feel like my digestion is slowed down) and the Zantac/omeprazole. Could these medications cause these issues?
Hi XXXXXXX
Sorry to hear that you are in pain again.
Hydroxyzine causes constipation but not Zantac or Omeprazole.
Continue to take gluten free, high fiber diet and plenty of fluids.
Get well soon.
Sorry to hear that you are in pain again.
Hydroxyzine causes constipation but not Zantac or Omeprazole.
Continue to take gluten free, high fiber diet and plenty of fluids.
Get well soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I went to a walk-in clinic today and the doctor there thought some of my symptoms could be from the NuvaRing. Could it cause digestive problems beyond nausea?
Hi XXXXXXX
The digestive problems that NuvaRing causes beyond nausea are vomiting, abdominal cramps and bloating, severe pain and swelling of the abdomen.
P.S.: NuvaRing also causes dizziness or fainting.
Have you got the NuvaRing removed?
Let me know.
Regards,
The digestive problems that NuvaRing causes beyond nausea are vomiting, abdominal cramps and bloating, severe pain and swelling of the abdomen.
P.S.: NuvaRing also causes dizziness or fainting.
Have you got the NuvaRing removed?
Let me know.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. No I haven't, I am waiting to call my doctor on Monday to see if she says I should take it out. Yesterday I had been feeling slightly better, then I ate dinner and my stomach felt tight and uncomfortable, I got in the shower and felt like my eyes wouldn't focus, I was lightheaded, bloated, my chest was tight, and my back hurt when I bent. It got better throughout the night but today I slept in really late and feel tired and nauseous.
In my opinion, you would benefit greatly if you get the NuvaRing removed.
Plan for an Endoscopy at a later date.
Take care!
Plan for an Endoscopy at a later date.
Take care!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you! I had blood work done the day before yesterday and it all came back normal, most of it was perfect actually, so I now know there's at least nothing seriously wrong. The digestive issues seem to be doing a little better now that I've stopped taking the Zantac. I will definitely speak to my doctor about seeing a gastroenterologist and getting an endoscopy though.
I am so glad that your blood work is normal and you seem to be better now.
Please go ahead and speak to your doctor, but no hurry in it. Follow my dietary suggestions, rest well. Try GET (Graded Exercise Therapy) as I told you, it has been studied to show effective results in people with chronic problems like you. Your quality of life will eventually improve.
Keep me posted about your progress. Concentrate on the academics as well.
You should be fine soon.
Please go ahead and speak to your doctor, but no hurry in it. Follow my dietary suggestions, rest well. Try GET (Graded Exercise Therapy) as I told you, it has been studied to show effective results in people with chronic problems like you. Your quality of life will eventually improve.
Keep me posted about your progress. Concentrate on the academics as well.
You should be fine soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks so much. How likely is it to have a health problem with normal blood work results? I do feel better right now but usually the symptoms get better and worse throughout the weeks/months.
Hi XXXXXXX
In most chronic health issues like IBS, Diabetes, Hypertension, autoimmune diseases like Lupus, and few other conditions, it is very very likely to have a health problem with normal blood work results. That is where clinical examination of the patient becomes an important priority.
Yes, usually chronic illnesses like yours has 'waxing and waning' of symptoms. And, that is why CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), GET (Grade Exercise Therapy), healthy diet, relaxation techniques like Yoga and Tai Chi become more important and effective management therapies. In this way, we train our body to become more resistant to illness and gain control over the illness.
It is just the way you think about life. The happier you are, the positive your outlook on life, the better will be your quality of life.
I must say, you asked a very interesting query. Thank you.
Take care!
In most chronic health issues like IBS, Diabetes, Hypertension, autoimmune diseases like Lupus, and few other conditions, it is very very likely to have a health problem with normal blood work results. That is where clinical examination of the patient becomes an important priority.
Yes, usually chronic illnesses like yours has 'waxing and waning' of symptoms. And, that is why CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), GET (Grade Exercise Therapy), healthy diet, relaxation techniques like Yoga and Tai Chi become more important and effective management therapies. In this way, we train our body to become more resistant to illness and gain control over the illness.
It is just the way you think about life. The happier you are, the positive your outlook on life, the better will be your quality of life.
I must say, you asked a very interesting query. Thank you.
Take care!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks so much. I don't think I have lupus or any autoimmune disease because I had an XXXXXXX antibodies test. And my blood sugar testing seems to have ruled our diabetes but I still have some symptoms. Today I woke up and waited probably an hour before eating, and I started to feel lightheaded. Then I ate and felt even more lightheaded. What can cause this?
Hi XXXXXXX
I am sorry; I do not know why you felt more lightheaded after eating.
Please continue to take either Zantac or Omeprazole to take care of the stomach acid.
Have you lost weight recently? A rare possibility is a pancreatic tumor causing your symptoms. But then, it would present with more severe symptoms.
Make a fixed diet chart for yourself on what to eat and at what intervals. Do not postpone your eating timings. Follow the chart regularly.
Regards,
I am sorry; I do not know why you felt more lightheaded after eating.
Please continue to take either Zantac or Omeprazole to take care of the stomach acid.
Have you lost weight recently? A rare possibility is a pancreatic tumor causing your symptoms. But then, it would present with more severe symptoms.
Make a fixed diet chart for yourself on what to eat and at what intervals. Do not postpone your eating timings. Follow the chart regularly.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I have not lost weight recently, I gained a little due to my need to eat more frequently. I don't think I have any pancreas issues, I had blood word that included amylase and lipase and they were normal.
I woke up today with pretty bad nausea but it seemed to be mostly relieved after a bowel movement. Can that be a sign of IBS?
I woke up today with pretty bad nausea but it seemed to be mostly relieved after a bowel movement. Can that be a sign of IBS?
Hi,
Glad that you have not lost weight recently and also, that your amylase and lipase is normal.
IBS usually does not present with nausea that is relieved by a bowel movement.
I will still stick to peptic ulcer/H. Pylori as a possibility.
Regards,
Glad that you have not lost weight recently and also, that your amylase and lipase is normal.
IBS usually does not present with nausea that is relieved by a bowel movement.
I will still stick to peptic ulcer/H. Pylori as a possibility.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Okay, thanks. Is it possible for symptoms of a food intolerance to develop suddenly? Like I said my symptoms started after I went through a bout of stress and then developed a viral illness.
Yesterday I was feeling a lot of tightness and cramping in my stomach that was making me feel lightheaded, but it went away the later it got. Today I feel okay but I'm lightheaded. I started taking Buspar last night and it seemed to help a lot but I'm not so sure if it's helped today.
Yesterday I was feeling a lot of tightness and cramping in my stomach that was making me feel lightheaded, but it went away the later it got. Today I feel okay but I'm lightheaded. I started taking Buspar last night and it seemed to help a lot but I'm not so sure if it's helped today.
Hi XXXXXXX
Food intolerance usually develops over time, it does not occur suddenly. Yes, going by the way of your symptoms, it is possible that you are gradually developing food intolerance.
Let me tell you, Buspar causing marked dizziness and light headedness. It may aggravate your lightheadedness although it might help you in anxiety.
Was the Buspar prescribed by your doctor? Please do not self medicate yourself. I understand that you need Buspar. However, it is not the drug of choice for stomach cramps. Dicylomine is much better and with lesser side effects. Please discuss about these options with your treating doctor.
Take care and get well soon.
Food intolerance usually develops over time, it does not occur suddenly. Yes, going by the way of your symptoms, it is possible that you are gradually developing food intolerance.
Let me tell you, Buspar causing marked dizziness and light headedness. It may aggravate your lightheadedness although it might help you in anxiety.
Was the Buspar prescribed by your doctor? Please do not self medicate yourself. I understand that you need Buspar. However, it is not the drug of choice for stomach cramps. Dicylomine is much better and with lesser side effects. Please discuss about these options with your treating doctor.
Take care and get well soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. It was prescribed to me about a month ago but I had not yet tried it because I was worried about side effects. It doesn't seem to be bothering me lately but I will look into Dicylomine. Thanks!
You seem to be a smart, intelligent young lady, XXXXXXX Wish I could have a look at your picture :).
Yes, Dicylomine is better as I said for your symptoms.
Keep me posted. Would love to hear from you.
Yes, Dicylomine is better as I said for your symptoms.
Keep me posted. Would love to hear from you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Yes,
Buspar is for anxiety. It does help with your anxiety but one of the obvious side effects that you are experiencing is lightheadedness. I am worried if it increases your light headedness.
Buspar does not help in stomach cramps, Dicyclomine does. Sorry, I spelt it wrong. It is Dicyclomine, not Dicylomine. I missed the letter 'C' in between.
Dicyclomine is an anti-spasmodic that helps to relieve the stomach spasms or cramps.
Hope this helps.
Buspar is for anxiety. It does help with your anxiety but one of the obvious side effects that you are experiencing is lightheadedness. I am worried if it increases your light headedness.
Buspar does not help in stomach cramps, Dicyclomine does. Sorry, I spelt it wrong. It is Dicyclomine, not Dicylomine. I missed the letter 'C' in between.
Dicyclomine is an anti-spasmodic that helps to relieve the stomach spasms or cramps.
Hope this helps.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Okay, thank you!
The stomach cramps and other symptoms like that do not happen really often, usually my main stomach issue is just nausea. My symptoms vary so much and will be better for a few days, then worse for a few days... is this probably anxiety? I don't always feel anxious but I felt so much better taking the Buspar. Are there any illnesses that would get better and worse like that and cause a wide variety of symptoms?
The stomach cramps and other symptoms like that do not happen really often, usually my main stomach issue is just nausea. My symptoms vary so much and will be better for a few days, then worse for a few days... is this probably anxiety? I don't always feel anxious but I felt so much better taking the Buspar. Are there any illnesses that would get better and worse like that and cause a wide variety of symptoms?
Hi XXXXXXX
Yes, your symptoms are probably related to anxiety.
If you feel better with Buspar, please continue to take it.
Many psychiatric illnesses cause this kind of variety of symptoms.
Yes, your symptoms are probably related to anxiety.
If you feel better with Buspar, please continue to take it.
Many psychiatric illnesses cause this kind of variety of symptoms.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I got my refill of Buspar and it did not seem to help me as much today. I have not had a good day. Last night I cleaned out the cat litterbox and breathed in a lot of the dust, then about an hour later my chest started hurting and feeling tight and my throat was sore. It was better by the time I went to bed. Today I woke up feeling weak, nauseous, tired, and shaky like I do a lot, and then I went to class. I had been walking a little and my chest started feeling really tight again. I got home and took the Buspar but I have still had a really hard time eating today and I'm still having the chest tightness as well as some back pain.
Hi XXXXXXX
Sorry for my delayed reply.
You probably got an allergic reaction. You may consider taking tablet Zyrtec 10mg at bedtime for the next three days. You will feel better.
Do steam inhalation thrice daily as well; you will get symptomatic relief.
Get well soon.
Sorry for my delayed reply.
You probably got an allergic reaction. You may consider taking tablet Zyrtec 10mg at bedtime for the next three days. You will feel better.
Do steam inhalation thrice daily as well; you will get symptomatic relief.
Get well soon.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks. I am breathing easier but I am having some pains in my back and underarms. Could this just be from the stress caused by the symptoms? I have been feeling a lot worse in general today. I think I could possibly have somatization disorder.
Hi XXXXXXX
Yes, the symptoms are due to the stress that you experienced. Rest a while, do steam inhalation as I said, and drink warm water.
I agree with you partly that it may be somatization disorder. Would it be a better idea to consult a Psychiatrist who can access you and help you deal with the situation? I think that would be ideal.
There is nothing wrong in seeking help at the right time and when it is actually indicated.
Take care.
Yes, the symptoms are due to the stress that you experienced. Rest a while, do steam inhalation as I said, and drink warm water.
I agree with you partly that it may be somatization disorder. Would it be a better idea to consult a Psychiatrist who can access you and help you deal with the situation? I think that would be ideal.
There is nothing wrong in seeking help at the right time and when it is actually indicated.
Take care.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I think I probably should see a psychiatrist and I will be trying to get an appointment soon.
Can stress or anxiety make you feel feverish? I just went to the store and when I was there I started feeling really hot and my back started hurting more. Now I'm home and really dizzy.
Can stress or anxiety make you feel feverish? I just went to the store and when I was there I started feeling really hot and my back started hurting more. Now I'm home and really dizzy.
Hi XXXXXXX
As I said earlier, there is no harm in seeing a Psychiatrist.
Obviously, stress or anxiety makes a person feel feverish.
You may be in the early stages of Fibromyalgia. I am unsure of it, however.
As I said earlier, there is no harm in seeing a Psychiatrist.
Obviously, stress or anxiety makes a person feel feverish.
You may be in the early stages of Fibromyalgia. I am unsure of it, however.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. I was feeling worse physically today and went to the walk-in clinic. The doctor was very nice and said there are really no illnesses that cause the variety of symptoms I've had and the pattern, so he thinks it is anxiety leading to physical symptoms. I was prescribed Zoloft to take before bed. I have still been experiencing shortness of breath and it has been almost constant for a few days. Could it be related to NuvaRing or my period? I have been advised to keep trying the NuvaRing for another month and then decide if I want to remove it.
Hi XXXXXXX
Your shortness of breath is probably related to you cleaning the cat litter box. I do not think it is related to NuvaRing or your period.
I agree with the doctor who thinks it is anxiety. Try Zoloft and see how you feel.
Ok, keep the NuvaRing for another month as said.
Regards,
Your shortness of breath is probably related to you cleaning the cat litter box. I do not think it is related to NuvaRing or your period.
I agree with the doctor who thinks it is anxiety. Try Zoloft and see how you feel.
Ok, keep the NuvaRing for another month as said.
Regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Okay thank you. So the cat litter could still be affecting me even though that happened on Sunday?
I woke up today feeling very nauseous and also felt very weak and shaky when I woke up. It is very hard to believe this is all anxiety because the symptoms are so severe.
I woke up today feeling very nauseous and also felt very weak and shaky when I woke up. It is very hard to believe this is all anxiety because the symptoms are so severe.
Hi XXXXXXX
Yes, the litter box affected you. Hope you took Zyrtec.
Yes, anxiety can cause all such symptoms. You may start going for morning walks on a regular basis.
You must bring in lifestyle changes into your life as exercise, a new hobby, a new learning class, yoga and meditation.
Hope this helps.
Thank you too.
Yes, the litter box affected you. Hope you took Zyrtec.
Yes, anxiety can cause all such symptoms. You may start going for morning walks on a regular basis.
You must bring in lifestyle changes into your life as exercise, a new hobby, a new learning class, yoga and meditation.
Hope this helps.
Thank you too.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you very much. Tonight I am having a new problem. It started with a sore throat and now my tongue and the roof of my mouth are very sore, and it hurts badly to eat and swallow food. The throat soreness isn't that bad, and it mainly only hurts when I eat. Sometimes the pain radiates to my ears too. Could this be a sinus issue or could it be caused by acid reflux?
Hi XXXXXXX
Your current symptoms are most probably caused by the acid reflux.
Take the antacids as I mentioned earlier.
Drink plenty of water.
Get well soon.
Your current symptoms are most probably caused by the acid reflux.
Take the antacids as I mentioned earlier.
Drink plenty of water.
Get well soon.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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