Persistent Breathlessness and Irregular Heartbeat Accompanied by Arm Discomfort
I am a 20-year-old female experiencing ongoing breathlessness, an irregular heartbeat, and discomfort in my right arm. The only medication I regularly use is Vienva, which is a combination birth control pill. Over the weekend, I encountered instances where my heart rate would spike, accompanied by a slight sensation of breathlessness. Initially, I dismissed it as a result of my anxiety. However, yesterday morning, an hour after awakening, I was struck by a sudden, intense pain across my entire right arm. During physical exertion at work, I began to notice an increased heart rate and shortness of breath. When I returned home from work around 4:45 PM, I settled on the couch, and shortly thereafter, the breathlessness returned, quickly followed by my heart racing again, although my arm felt considerably less painful at that moment. Despite trying to push through my evening activities—preparing dinner, showering, and taking care of my pets—my breathing difficulties worsened significantly by 8 or 9 PM, to the point where I felt I was truly struggling to breathe. In an effort to alleviate my symptoms, I took a Benadryl, hoping it would help me relax and get some rest. Unfortunately, I was so weak that my boyfriend had to assist me in opening the pill packet. I managed to get some sleep but awoke frequently, gasping for air as my body didn’t seem to be managing its breathing properly. When I rose this morning, I felt relatively alright, but as soon as I got out of bed and resumed my morning routine, the symptoms returned with a vengeance and persisted despite my attempts to rest. I visited my doctor, who recommended an EKG to investigate further, and it indicated I was experiencing borderline tachycardia. I have an appointment scheduled with a cardiologist in two weeks. What could be causing these symptoms of rapid heart rate, severe breathlessness, and arm pain? My doctor initially considered POTS as a possible diagnosis, but I have been tested for it in the past and it was ruled out. Moreover, it seems illogical for these issues to persist even during extended periods of rest. I was advised to go to the ER if I experience another episode of profound breathlessness, which I encountered last night, and I regret not seeking immediate help then.
Answers (1)
9/10/2025, 6:40:55 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about your symptoms, especially with the combination of breathlessness, irregular heartbeat, and arm discomfort. These can signify several underlying issues, and it's good that you are seeking help. Here’s a breakdown of potential causes and what steps you can take.
Main Points
- Your symptoms may be linked to anxiety, hormonal effects from birth control, or cardiovascular issues.
- The combination of breathlessness, irregular heartbeat, and arm pain raises concerns, especially with past instances of tachycardia.
- Seeking immediate help during severe episodes is crucial, as your symptoms may indicate a need for urgent care.
Explanation
Breathlessness and irregular heartbeats can stem from various factors such as anxiety, physical strain, or heart-related issues. The discomfort in your right arm, while it can sometimes indicate cardiac issues, might also be due to muscle strain or anxiety-related tension. It's notable that you experience difficulties even when resting, which emphasizes the need to investigate further. Your previous testing for POTS is relevant, and it’s worth discussing any other potential causes with your cardiologist.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities or stressors. This can inform your upcoming appointment with the cardiologist.
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Identify Triggers: Try to identify any specific physical or emotional triggers for your breathlessness and increased heart rate (e.g., stress, activity levels). Understanding patterns can be helpful for managing situations.
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Rest and Relaxation: Prioritize rest and employ relaxation techniques. Consider methods like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching to help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
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Emergency Preparedness: If you experience severe breathlessness again, do not hesitate to seek emergency care. Your health and safety are paramount.
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Cardiologist Follow-Up: Prepare for your upcoming cardiologist appointment. Bring your symptom diary and be ready to discuss all aspects of your experience, including any family history of heart disease.
Take care and be attentive to your body. Don't hesitate to ask for help as you navigate through this challenging time.
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