Differential Diagnosis
The patient presents with a heart rate of 130, fatigue, and nausea. Here's a differential diagnosis organized into categories:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): This condition is characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and palpitations. The patient's heart rate of 130 beats per minute is consistent with SVT.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dehydration: Severe dehydration can cause tachycardia, fatigue, and nausea. The patient's symptoms could be related to dehydration, especially if they have been experiencing excessive fluid loss.
- Anxiety or Panic Attack: Anxiety and panic attacks can cause a rapid heart rate, nausea, and fatigue. The patient's symptoms could be related to a psychological condition.
- Thyroid Storm: Hyperthyroidism can cause tachycardia, fatigue, and nausea. Although less common, thyroid storm is a possible diagnosis.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Myocardial Infarction (MI): Although the patient's symptoms are not typical of an MI, it is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has risk factors for cardiovascular disease. An MI can present with atypical symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A PE can cause tachycardia, fatigue, and nausea. This diagnosis is critical to consider, as a missed PE can be fatal.
- Cardiac Tamponade: Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening condition that can cause tachycardia, fatigue, and nausea. Although rare, it is essential to consider this diagnosis.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pheochromocytoma: This rare tumor can cause episodic tachycardia, fatigue, and nausea. Although unlikely, it is essential to consider this diagnosis if other causes are ruled out.
- Catecholamine-Induced Tachycardia: Certain medications or substances can cause catecholamine-induced tachycardia, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and a rapid heart rate.