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Experiencing Sudden Hot Flashes and Nausea During Injection

4/4/2025, 4:20:27 PMMale25-34

At 19 years old, I identify as AFAB, stand 5 feet 5 inches tall, and weigh 130 pounds. I do not smoke or consume alcohol, and my only medications are low-dose Prozac (taken for nine months) and testosterone. Today, something unexpected occurred while I attempted to administer my injection. Out of nowhere, I felt as though I might faint and vomit. I've been accustomed to these injections for over a year and have never encountered such a sensation before. I only managed to insert the needle halfway before overwhelming dizziness set in, affecting my vision severely and inducing a wave of nausea. My chest felt unusually heavy, making it laborious to breathe. I quickly withdrew the needle and capped it before I could complete the injection (it's half an inch long, and I usually inject in my abdomen). My entire body felt as though it was engulfed in heat; I was sweating profusely and felt extremely nauseous. It seemed like my ears were leaking, though I don't believe they actually were, and my nose was running. Glancing in the mirror, I noticed my face had turned quite pale. I don't believe this reaction stemmed from the injection itself, unless I accidentally hit a sensitive area, but the procedure felt no different from previous times. After taking a moment to sit, waiting for the symptoms to subside while experiencing tingling in my legs, I was able to proceed with the injection again after about 20 minutes without any issues. I have only experienced similar feelings on two previous occasions: once after dislocating my knee at work, and another when I was about 15 and felt faint after retrieving something from a cabinet. These episodes both happened before I started any medication, which may be worth noting.

FibromyalgiaThyroid DisordersCOPD

Answers (1)

Cony

4/4/2025, 4:20:49 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to be concerned about such intense and sudden symptoms when administering an injection. Your experience of hot flashes, nausea, dizziness, and chest heaviness during your injection may point to a vasovagal response (a common reaction that can cause fainting), rather than a direct reaction to the medication itself. Here's a clearer understanding and some actionable steps.

Main Points:

  1. Possible Cause: Sudden dizziness and nausea during injections can often be due to stress or anxiety, leading to a vasovagal response.
  2. Previous Episodes: Your history of similar sensations indicates a possible underlying sensitivity during stressful moments, rather than a direct reaction to your testosterone injection.
  3. Next Steps: It’s essential to manage this response safely and consider adjustments for future injections.

Explanation:

When you insert a needle, it can sometimes trigger a vasovagal response, particularly if you feel anxious or if your body perceives stress. This reaction can cause symptoms like dizziness, nausea, sweating, and a feeling of warmth. Given that you've experienced this in other situations, it’s likely that your body reacts strongly to moments of physical stress.

Actionable Steps:

  1. Stay Calm: Before your next injection, practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to reduce anxiety. Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm your nervous system.

  2. Hydrate and Prepare: Ensure you're well-hydrated before your injection. Dehydration can worsen feelings of dizziness and nausea.

  3. Change Position: Consider sitting down or lying down during your injection. This can help you feel safer and can minimize the chances of a fainting episode.

  4. Take Breaks: If you start feeling dizzy at all while administering your injection, it's perfectly okay to pause. Allow yourself time to regroup before trying again.

  5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of your experiences during injections. Note any patterns that might help you identify triggers.

  6. Consult if Needed: If these symptoms happen again or worsen, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and support, especially if you have ongoing concerns about your medication or reactions.

Remember, it’s okay to take your time with injections, and understanding your unique responses is key to managing them effectively. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.

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