OpenHealth Q&A

Experiencing a Fainting Episode with Tremors and Chest Discomfort

Hello, I'm a 31-year-old female with a diagnosis of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and have been prescribed fludrocortisone at a dosage of 0.1 mg a few months back to aid with my low blood pressure, which seems to be effective. I have a history of fainting, particularly during blood tests or when I see my own blood, though I rarely lose consciousness in everyday scenarios; I often just get dizzy and lightheaded when I change positions or stand up too quickly. A couple of nights ago, while putting away laundry, I stood up several times in a short period and experienced a fainting episode—not fully out, but more in a semi-conscious state. My partner managed to catch me, and I remember struggling to communicate that I needed to lie down; it felt as though only murmurs came out. After expressing my needs and resting for about twenty minutes, I started to feel mostly back to normal, gradually moving to bed where I continued to feel better. Approximately thirty minutes later, while relaxing and watching television, I suddenly felt an intense, tight sensation in my chest. My left arm became numb and tingled. My body began shaking, though I wasn't cold, yet my jaw felt tightly clenched, and my legs shook uncontrollably to the point it seemed I was kicking. The tightness in my chest felt both warm and damp. I have no idea what caused this. After about twenty minutes, these sensations gradually diminished, but I continued to shake to the extent that my partner had to assist me downstairs to use the bathroom. About twenty-five minutes after that, while back in bed and feeling stable, the episode returned—this time milder but still included the tightness in my chest, tingling in my arm, and twitching legs. It subsided much quicker than the first occurrence, and I eventually managed to get some sleep. I woke up the next day with lingering tingling and numbness in my left arm, which also eased over a few hours. What could have possibly happened? I’ve experienced fainting spells before but never like this after regaining consciousness. My partner thinks I should see a doctor, but I'm concerned they might dismiss my experience since I seem fine now. Should I go ahead and schedule an appointment? Additionally, I’ve never experienced a panic attack, and I wasn’t feeling anxious during the episode, but could that be a possibility? Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Answers (1)

7/23/2025, 4:50:52 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you experienced a concerning episode that included fainting, chest discomfort, and tremors, which can be alarming, especially given your history with POTS. Based on your description, there are a couple of possibilities for your symptoms, including vasovagal syncope, effects of low blood pressure, or even anxiety-related reactions. However, it's important to acknowledge that your symptoms warrant further evaluation.

1. Understanding the Episode: Given your history of POTS, episodes of fainting or dizziness upon standing are common. The tightness in your chest, tingling in your arm, and shaking could indicate a more complex interaction of symptoms related to low blood pressure and possibly anxiety or a stress response. The lingering numbness and tingling can occur due to nerve compression or other vascular changes due to your position after fainting.

2. What You Should Do: It is essential to take this situation seriously. Symptoms such as chest tightness, tingling in the arm, and fainting are not something to ignore. Although you feel okay now, the occurrence of these symptoms alongside your history of POTS suggests the need for a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

3. Prioritized Next Steps:

   • Schedule a Medical Appointment: Please make an appointment with a healthcare provider who is familiar with POTS and its effects. Given your symptoms, they may want to perform an ECG, monitor your blood pressure, and assess other potential causes.
   • Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms before, during, and after any episodes, including triggers, durations, and any other unusual feelings. This information will be invaluable for your doctor.
   • Stay Hydrated and Manage Position Changes: While waiting for your appointment, continue to stay well-hydrated, and move slowly when changing positions to help manage symptoms related to blood pressure.

4. Consider Anxiety: Although you mentioned not feeling anxious during the episode, sometimes the body can react in ways we don't consciously associate with anxiety. It might be worth discussing your experiences with your healthcare provider to rule out any panic-related episodes.

Your health and comfort are important, and seeking medical advice will help clarify your symptoms and provide you with a better understanding of how to manage your condition. Don't hesitate to reach out for help!