Experiencing a Mild Fever and Elevated Heart Rate Following Head Pain and a Brief Panic Episode
I am a 25-year-old female currently on a prescription of 20 mg Lexapro. Recently, I experienced a sudden and intense stabbing pain in my head that jolted me awake from my slumber, leading to a brief panic episode as I felt a surge of anxiety about my health. This sharp discomfort lasted for only about three seconds before fading away. While similar sensations have occurred in the past, this episode was unusual as it disrupted my sleep and felt distinctly different, resembling a quick, electric jolt. Since that incident, I have observed an increase of 20 beats per minute in my resting heart rate and a general feeling of warmth, which I suspect may indicate a mild fever. I wonder if these symptoms might be interrelated. After consulting with my physician, he noted that the only concerning aspect of my head pain was its ability to awaken me from sleep, prompting the scheduling of both an MRI and an MRA in the upcoming weeks. I am considering the possibility that the Lexapro may be leading to Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS), and I might have triggered a psychogenic fever due to my minor panic attack. Additionally, I should add that I overindulged in alcohol on Saturday, which left me feeling extremely ill and bedridden throughout Sunday, unable to stand. Although I felt somewhat groggy on Monday, I was back to normal on Tuesday.
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 11:10:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your symptoms and how they may be connected. You’re experiencing a combination of head pain, an elevated heart rate, and possible mild fever, which can all be distressing. Here's a clear breakdown of what might be going on and what steps you can take next.
Main Points
- Your symptoms may be interrelated, possibly stemming from anxiety, medication effects, or recent alcohol overindulgence.
- Current symptoms warrant monitoring, especially with the scheduled MRI and MRA for your head pain.
- Immediate self-care can help manage symptoms and reduce anxiety.
Explanation
The intense head pain that briefly woke you and your subsequent panic episode could be related to anxiety or stress, particularly if you've had similar experiences before. The increase in heart rate often accompanies anxiety or panic attacks, and the warmth you feel might reflect a mild fever—sometimes caused by anxiety itself or possibly a response to alcohol withdrawal after overindulgence.
Lexapro, which you’re taking, can sometimes lead to side effects that impact heart rate, but it’s crucial to follow up with your doctor about your concerns regarding Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS). It’s good that you have an MRI and MRA scheduled, as these can provide valuable information.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily diary of your symptoms, noting the intensity and frequency of head pain, heart rate changes, and feelings of warmth. This will help you identify patterns and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially after your recent alcohol consumption. Rest as much as you need to recover fully; your body may still be adjusting.
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Manage Anxiety: Employ relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga to help manage anxiety, especially if you experience any more panic episodes.
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Limit Alcohol: Consider reducing alcohol intake to see if it improves your overall feelings and reduces any potential strain on your body.
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Follow Up with a Health Professional: Keep all scheduled medical appointments, especially the MRI and MRA, and discuss your concerns about medications and their side effects during those consultations.
By taking these steps, you can better manage your current symptoms and improve your overall well-being. If you experience any severe symptoms, like significant dizziness, prolonged confusion, or worsening head pain, don't hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.
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