What could cause shaky and dizzy?
Patient: I am feeling shaky almost nervous. I get dizzy very easy. I am tired all of the time. I am thirsty all the time. My head hurts a lot. I had heart surgery in 2008 for aortic regurgitation. Two months ago I was hospitalized with chest pain and they kept giving me potassium. I need help Doctor: Hello!Thank you for asking on HCM!Regarding your concern, I would like to explain that many disorder could cause this clinical scenario.I would recommend consulting with your GP for a careful physical examination, a resting ECG, a chest x ray and some blood lab tests : - complete blood count for chronic anemia- kidney and liver function tests - blood electrolytes ( including calcium and magnesium)- thyroid hormone levels and cortisol plasma levels ( to exclude possible thyroid and adrenal gland dysfunction)-fasting glucose and glucose tolerance test ( diabetes could cause chronic fatigue and thirst)- a cardiac ultrasound to examine your cardiac function. -inflammation tests (fibrinogen, PCR, sedimentation), because an autoimmune disorder could mimic such a clinical scenario. -blood and urine osmolarity ( this test helps define the cause of your thirst)I also advise monitoring your blood pressure in both sitting and standing up position. A head up tilt test is necessary to exclude possible orthostatic hypotension. Hope to have been of help!Best wishes, Dr. Iliri