What causes palpitations, shortness of breath, and generalized weakness?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, palpitations, shortness of breath, and generalized weakness may be caused by emotional stress, physical exhaustion, hypoglycemia, anemia, myocarditis, or other conditions. Prolonged mental tension, anxiety, or depression can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and overall fatigue. These symptoms may be alleviated through psychological counseling, relaxation training, mindfulness meditation, and other methods to reduce psychological burden.
Generally, palpitations, shortness of breath, and generalized weakness may be caused by emotional stress, physical exhaustion, hypoglycemia, anemia, myocarditis, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Emotional Stress
Long-term mental tension, anxiety, or depression may lead to palpitations, shortness of breath, and a feeling of overall fatigue. Psychological counseling, relaxation training, and mindfulness meditation can help reduce psychological burden.
2. Physical Exhaustion
Excessive exercise or prolonged work increases oxygen consumption in the heart and muscles beyond the body's oxygen supply capacity, causing palpitations and shortness of breath. Meanwhile, muscle fatigue produces metabolic byproducts such as lactic acid, leading to a sensation of full-body weakness. Ensure adequate rest and sleep, maintain a balanced work-life schedule, and avoid overexertion. Replenishing with appropriate electrolyte drinks or carbohydrate-rich foods can aid in restoring energy.
3. Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is primarily caused by low blood glucose levels. Since glucose is the main energy source for the brain and muscles, insufficient energy supply due to low blood sugar can trigger palpitations, shortness of breath, and generalized weakness. Symptoms may also include hunger and blurred vision. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as furosemide tablets, carbamazepine tablets, or phenobarbital tablets for treatment.
4. Anemia
Anemia results from a reduction in peripheral red blood cell volume below the lower limit of normal. Decreased hemoglobin content within red blood cells impairs oxygen transport, leading to palpitations and shortness of breath. Inadequate oxygen delivery to muscle tissues also causes feelings of fatigue. Symptoms may include pallor and thinning nails. Follow medical instructions to treat with medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous fumarate granules, or iron dextran tablets.
5. Myocarditis
Myocarditis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections. Cardiac inflammation may impair the heart's pumping function, potentially leading to palpitations, shortness of breath, and generalized weakness. Symptoms may also include chest pain and edema. Follow medical advice when using medications such as nitroglycerin tablets, benazepril hydrochloride tablets, or amoxicillin capsules for treatment.
In daily life, in addition to balancing work and rest, it is important to maintain regular physical exercise to promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism, and enhance immunity.
