My 10 year old son in having chest pain and anxiety.

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Ma'am did all this start upon his return from camp? When was the benadryl started.

He was taking benadryl during camp each night before bedtime. He took it for 5 straight nights.
He also takes Focalin XR 10mg and has been for 9 months.

Did his primary MD direct the use of Benadryl?

Yes.

Ok, the only reason I asked about the Benadryl is the possible reaction with the Focalin. Focalin being a stimulant also. I do not know if he sprinkles his focalin or take the tab but he is taking the time released focalin. Ritalin is in the same class and both do tend to drive one's system into a fast paced gear at times. Using the two together seems to be a little rough on a child of 10. But his primary said it was ok to do so.

I live in Florida and I can tell you it has been very hot these last two weeks. If he has played hard the last few days then he very well may have a case of mild heat exhaustion that he is coming down from that was exacerbated from the combined use of the Benadryl and Focalin XR. This is release over time in the body and the added benadryl may have overburdened his system during this period of heat and excercise.

I would suggest since the EKG was normal to lay off the Benadryl for the rest of today and see how he is in the morning. Give him plenty of fluids and keep him calmed down and cool for the rest of the day.

You mentioned anxiety as well. Can you elaborate on this some please. Give me some details that are not seen with ADHD

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He has been worried about dying and having a heart attack. He can't stop worrying 24/7. His chest pain comes and goes. His Focalin is extended release. I agree with your diagnosis of mild heat exhaustion. We were at Disney this past weekend and he was not able to enjoy his vacation. Thanks.

The benadryl will cause heart palpitations in children. This is documented. Focalin does not do this.

If he is still on the Benadryl I would call his MD and ask if he can come off of it. It may be hard to contact them today.

I am not a medical doctor but have extensive training from the Miami Dade County Medical Examiners Office.

Any child that is having chest pain whether it be from heat, medications, or other stress related factors will indeed feel the fear of dying and be afraid. This compounds the feeling.

Going back to the EKG saying that all was well I would discount at this time any immediate concern over the chest pain unless it becomes clear to you and more evident.

One topic I want to touch on ever so gently not knowing what camp or where he has been. You show your from Georgia.

And I am by no means saying this has occurred but something to consider. With all other communication mentioned above and using and going on that the anxiety has me a little concerned. Is there any possible way he may have been sexually abused in anyway at this camp that would indicate to you some of his sudden onset of problems? Some of the symptoms are indicative of this but not factual all the time. I know this is delicate by nature but it is a possibility that something may have occurred while at camp that has him agitated more then he should be. I hope you understand what I am trying to say and that I am saying it with the utmost of personal concern and thought. This is something that perhaps you or your husband may discuss later with him to rule out the chest pains and added anxiety above his normal range.

Other then that scenario I would go with the above info suggested of dropping the Benedryl upon the Md's approval or yours if you feel comfortable with doing it. I feel this is indeed adding more stress to his body.

Check him regularly and keep him calm and rested for the remainder of the day. If he is still feeling the same after being off the Benedryl and persist of chest pain and fear of dying then go ahead and get him to his primary asap.

It does seem though that he has had a rough week in very hot weather and compounded with meds has had a mild to slight reaction to the two.

If I can be of further assistance please do not hesitate to ask for me.

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