Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): This condition is characterized by episodes of rapid heart rate that can cause symptoms such as lightheadedness, palpitations, and shortness of breath. The fact that the patient's heart rate goes up to 130 and she feels lightheaded, with symptoms resolving after a few minutes, is consistent with SVT.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Anxiety or Panic Attack: These conditions can cause an increase in heart rate and feelings of lightheadedness, and can be triggered by stress or anxiety.
- Dehydration or Volume Depletion: Dehydration can cause an increase in heart rate and lightheadedness, especially when standing up or changing positions.
- Vasovagal Syncope: This condition is characterized by episodes of fainting or near-fainting, often triggered by stress, pain, or prolonged standing.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g. Ventricular Tachycardia): Although less likely, these conditions can cause rapid heart rates and lightheadedness, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Cardiac Ischemia or Myocardial Infarction: Although rare in young individuals, cardiac ischemia or myocardial infarction can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Pulmonary Embolism: This condition can cause sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain, and lightheadedness, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodes of rapid heart rate, hypertension, and lightheadedness.
- Thyrotoxicosis: A condition caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones, which can cause rapid heart rate, palpitations, and lightheadedness.
- Mitral Valve Prolapse: A condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, which can cause palpitations, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness.