Concerns About Leg Symptoms and Heart Rate
I am a 30-year-old woman, standing at 5'8" and weighing 160 pounds. My health issues began about two weeks ago, following a single injection of .50 ozempic I received 15 days prior. Besides this, I've been taking supplements including magnesium, fiber, and antacids, but no other medications. Approximately six days after administering the ozempic injection, I went to the emergency room due to a worryingly high resting heart rate, which reached 157 while standing and averaged between 100-130 when seated. This abnormal heart rhythm persisted intermittently for five days before I decided to seek medical help. During my ER visit, my blood pressure was recorded at 135/92, and various tests including blood work, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and an X-ray all returned normal results. Last night, I found myself back in the ER experiencing similar symptoms: my heart rate spiked to 130 while I was sitting, accompanied by chest discomfort and difficulties in breathing after light activity. This time, my blood pressure was higher at 152/93. We conducted blood tests, an ECG, and a heart scan to investigate the presence of blood clots in my lungs, yet all results were still within normal ranges. I noticed some swelling in my feet during this visit, and the physician advised me to elevate them. Since being home, I've been struggling with circulation in my legs and feet. My thigh muscles are extremely painful, and I observe pronounced blue veins resembling spider veins bulging in my feet. While I did experience some swelling initially, elevating my feet helped alleviate it. I’m contemplating whether these ongoing issues necessitate another ER visit or if they may simply stem from reduced physical activity over the past couple of weeks. Although the ER referred me to see a cardiologist, I’m informed that obtaining an appointment could take weeks. Additionally, it’s worth noting that I have no previous history of heart palpitations or circulatory problems. This situation is quite perplexing for me, leaving me eager for clarity and solutions regarding my symptoms.
Answers (1)
7/1/2025, 8:40:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms, including a high resting heart rate, leg pain, and changes in circulation, can be concerning, especially since they have escalated since your ozempic injection and are occurring alongside elevated blood pressure. It's understandable to seek clarity on these issues. Here's a breakdown of the situation and recommended next steps.
Main Points
- Your symptoms may relate to the ozempic injection, or they could indicate a separate issue.
- It's crucial to monitor and address severe symptoms and maintain mobility to aid circulation.
Explanation
Ozempic, a medication used for managing blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, can sometimes cause side effects, including changes in heart rate and circulation issues. Your episodes of elevated heart rate, chest discomfort, and leg symptoms warrant careful monitoring, especially considering that the tests you've undergone returned normal results. The swelling and pain in your legs, along with pronounced veins, may suggest some circulatory compromise.
Elevating your legs is a good immediate strategy to help manage swelling. However, if you notice worsening symptoms or fail to find relief, it is important to take further action.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your heart rate, blood pressure, and leg symptoms. Note any changes in swelling or pain levels, especially after activity or rest.
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Stay Active (as tolerated): If you can, incorporate light stretching and walking into your daily routine to improve circulation. Avoid prolonged periods of inactivity.
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Hydration & Nutrition: Ensure you’re staying well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which can support overall vascular health. Monitor your magnesium intake, as high doses can potentially affect heart rhythm.
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Elevate Your Legs: Continue to elevate your legs periodically to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
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Watch for Severe Symptoms: Seek immediate care if you experience any new severe symptoms (e.g., extreme chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or severe swelling), especially if these symptoms worsen rapidly.
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Cardiologist Follow-Up: While you wait for your cardiology appointment, don't hesitate to reach out to your primary care provider for interim advice or if your symptoms change.
Conclusion
It's essential to remain vigilant about your symptoms and take proactive steps to manage your health actively. Continuously monitor your condition and seek prompt medical attention if you feel your symptoms are worsening. You're not alone in this situation; support systems (friends, family, or online forums) can also be beneficial as you navigate these challenges.
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