Understanding Heart Issues and Long-term Effects After Salbutamol Overdose: Seeking Insight
**A longer read, but your input would mean a lot.** I’m a 28-year-old man. My upbringing was quite challenging, marked by instances of **domestic violence** and other hardships. However, I managed to overcome these obstacles and was excelling in sports and academics. I have lived with **asthma** since childhood. In 2019, upon returning from university, I felt the onset of an **asthma attack**. I opted to use my nebulizer for relief. Unfortunately, I mistakenly filled the nebulizer entirely with **salbutamol** instead of combining it with the necessary **saline solution**. This led to a significant overdose as I used it for almost **twenty minutes**. Shortly after, I experienced intense **palpitations** as if my heart was on the verge of bursting out of my chest. I also suffered from severe **dizziness**, a **throbbing headache**, and my **blood pressure** spiked, to the point of nearly collapsing. This panic episode lasted for about two hours before I was able to rest. Initially, the incident faded from my memory, but over the following days, I continued to endure **vertigo** and palpitations. Within a few months, these symptoms persisted, coupled with chronic high blood pressure. Gradually, I began to face stomach issues as well. I developed **severe GERD**, excessive **burping**, and a constant feeling of **fullness**. My weight plummeted from **75 kg** to **54 kg**, leaving me looking gaunt and unhealthy. Despite my efforts to treat these stomach problems with a **gastroenterologist**, the root cause was attributed to **anxiety**. While I accepted this diagnosis, multiple treatment regimens aimed at anxiety yielded little improvement. I consulted various specialists, including **cardiologists**, **gastroenterologists**, and **psychiatrists**, but none have effectively addressed my concerns. I suspect that the symptoms I’m experiencing are linked to the **overdose of salbutamol**, but this perspective has not been supported by medical professionals. Numerous assessments have been conducted, including **blood tests**, **ECG**, **EKG**, a **24-hour Holter monitor**, and **MRI** of the heart, yet results have revealed only minor T wave anomalies. Some doctors have suggested a diagnosis of **fibromyalgia**, while others have indicated it may be a **fight-or-flight** reaction from my body. Each physician seems to have a different theory. I struggle to understand the sudden emergence of these issues: **heart pain**, palpitations, fluctuating blood pressure, extreme fatigue, unwanted weight loss, and feelings of dizziness. Could this all stem from anxiety, or is my concern about the salbutamol overdose valid? Here are the ongoing symptoms I’ve dealt with daily for the past seven years: * **Persistent GERD-like symptoms** * **Severe palpitations during light exercise or walking** * **Elevated blood pressure sensations** * **Chest pain** * **Quick onset of fatigue** * **Inability to focus** * **Chronic headaches** * **Overall weakness, lethargy, noticeable weight loss** * **Muscle fatigue and tiredness** I genuinely seek clarity on this situation and hope for some guidance.
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 8:50:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been through a lot, and I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've faced, both physically and emotionally. Your symptoms are complex, and it’s understandable to seek clarity about the potential links between your past salbutamol overdose and your current health issues. Let’s break this down to provide some insight and actionable steps.
Main Points
- Your symptoms may be a result of multiple factors, including anxiety, the previous salbutamol overdose, or a combination of both.
- Ongoing support and targeted management of your symptoms are essential.
Explanation
Salbutamol, while effective for asthma, can cause side effects, including palpitations and elevated heart rate, especially in cases of overdose. The feelings of anxiety or panic you experienced post-overdose could have set off a cycle of continued anxiety symptoms, which might explain your ongoing issues. Chronic high blood pressure, fluctuating pulse, and even symptoms like dizziness can exist independently or as part of anxiety-related responses.
Regarding Your Current Symptoms:
- GERD Symptoms: Chronic stress and anxiety can exacerbate GERD, leading to increased stomach acid production. This might explain the weight loss and feelings of fullness.
- Palpitations and Chest Pain: These could stem from anxiety, especially if they worsen with physical activity. It's good to note that heart monitoring tests have been normal.
- Muscle Fatigue and Weakness: This could be related to both anxiety and potential nutritional issues arising from your weight loss.
Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your daily symptoms, noting any triggers (stress, food, exercise) and how you feel after certain activities. This can help both you and your healthcare providers understand patterns.
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Focus on Stress Management: Consider integrating stress management techniques into your routine, such as:
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can significantly reduce anxiety.
- Regular Exercise: Start with light, enjoyable activities that don’t exacerbate your symptoms. Walking can be a great start and is typically safe for most individuals.
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Nutritional Support: Since you're experiencing significant weight loss, consulting a dietitian could be beneficial. They can tailor a nutrition plan that addresses your gastro issues while ensuring you're getting essential nutrients.
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Psychological Support: Engaging with a therapist, particularly someone who specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or anxiety management, may help tackle the ongoing anxiety symptoms.
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Continued Communication with Healthcare Providers: Ensure your healthcare providers are aware of all your symptoms and how they're affecting you. If you feel your concerns are still not being addressed, don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion or seek out specialists in anxiety-related physical symptoms.
Reassurance
It's important to know that you’re not alone in this, and seeking support shows strength. It can take time to find the right combination of treatments and information that works for you. Keeping track of your symptoms and focusing on stress management and nutrition can often lead to gradual improvements. If you have further questions or if any new symptoms arise, don't hesitate to reach out for more specific guidance. Your health and well-being are important!
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