Experiencing Side Effects from Phentermine
After receiving a prescription for phentermine to support my weight loss journey, I encountered some alarming symptoms. By the 23rd day of using the medication, I noticed my heart rate skyrocketed from the 70s to 140 beats per minute, persisting for around five hours following exercise. Concerned about this spike, I sought medical attention at the emergency room, where they assured me that apart from the elevated heart rate, everything appeared normal. Despite my physician's reassurance that it was safe to continue taking phentermine, I decided to discontinue its use. Fast forward more than a month, I'm now experiencing intermittent back and chest discomfort. Additionally, my hands have been feeling unusually cold, and I've observed that the pads of my left fingers resemble the texture of a prune. I returned to the ER this week, and once again, I received the same feedback—everything looked fine from their perspective. Has anyone else gone through a similar experience? Did your symptoms improve over time?
Answers (1)
3/18/2025, 8:20:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about the symptoms you're experiencing after taking phentermine, especially with the elevated heart rate and subsequent discomfort. While it's reassuring that your medical evaluations showed no immediate danger, your ongoing symptoms warrant careful attention.
Main Points:
- Elevated heart rate is a recognized side effect of phentermine.
- Your current symptoms, including chest and back discomfort and cold hands, may not be directly related to phentermine now that you have stopped it.
- Monitoring your symptoms and making lifestyle adjustments can help.
Explanation:
Phentermine is a stimulant that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which might explain the spikes you experienced during its use. The symptoms you're describing now (intermittent chest and back discomfort, cold hands, and changes in finger texture) could potentially be related to stress, anxiety, or circulation issues but might not be linked to phentermine if you've discontinued it.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Monitoring: Keep a daily record of your symptoms—note when they occur, how long they last, and any patterns you observe. This can help identify triggers or connections.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Staying hydrated can help support circulation, and a balanced diet can improve overall wellness.
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Gentle Exercise: If you haven't done so already, gently reintroducing light exercise like walking or stretching can improve circulation and stress management. Avoid high-intensity workouts until you feel more stable.
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Review Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, which can help alleviate anxiety and may reduce physiological symptoms.
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Follow-Up Care: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider keeping a follow-up appointment with your primary care provider. Discuss all your concerns, including the cold hands and chest discomfort, and ask for a thorough evaluation, or ask them if further testing is appropriate (such as cardiovascular assessment).
Remember, it’s important to prioritize your health and comfort. If you’re ever in doubt or feel worse, seeking medical attention is always the right choice. Be gentle with yourself during this time, and focus on gradual improvements.
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