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Theresa
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4/24/2003
00:21:05
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 Subject: Heart Palpatations
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Hi,
Thanks to all of you who have posted I feel so much better after days of agony over this. I have been to my doctor two days ago and wore a holter monitor which I returned today. She said my heart sounds good and my blood test for thyroid problems was negative. I was sure I was going crazy until I found this site. I have five children they are 2, 11, 14, 16, & 19. I guess that would be enough in its self to cause these darned palpatations. I notice them a few weeks ago when my Pms was full blown and was sure I was dying until I told my husban two days ago and he convienced me to see my doctor (I had been avoiding this for fear she would tell me the worst). I think what bothered me more than anything was leaving my kids especailly my two year old without a mother. I am 35 1/2 and aske my doctor if I could be experiencing premenopause. She said I was to young. When I returned my holter monitor today I demaned a test to see what my estrogen level is. I am also late for my period which has been getting lighter over the last several months. Sorry this is so long I just needed to vent. Please feel free to email me as I need all the reassurance I can get.
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Valerie
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5/10/2003
07:04:14
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi, I've been reading some of the messages on here tonight about palpitaions, and I've been having them for about 10 years. You're doctor is just plain wrong about you being too young for menopause symptoms. You might be too young to actually go through menopause, but your body cause start having symptoms years before. I started getting terrible heart palpitations when I was about 30. I am now 43, and still getting them. I made the obvious connection myself to menopause because my palpitations became really bad as I became closer to my last cycles. Then, when I had my last period, the palpitations calmed way down, from having a PVC every few beats to having a few a day, so I went from thousands to that, so it was obvious. But, I thought I was done with them, and it's been months without them (or just few of them), and then again in the last three weeks, they have been coming back again, for no apparant reason. I haven't been having my periods, but my cardiologist says that my body may still be going through some cycle and symptoms of menopause can still remain. So, these palpitations are definitely connected to menopause, even if you are 10 or even more years before that. I am only 43, and done fairly early I think, but it seems like people are surprised that menopause is not something that happens in your 50's, it can start very early, in your thirties, or earlier. Most of the doctors I have seen for this say that the palpitations are extremely annoying, but harmless, and that if you can stand them, it's best not to go on medication for them, because currently, all medication out there for this has the potential to make it worse. I went on two different beta-blockers, and one of them helped for a while, but then did make it worse after a couple of months, same with the other really. So, now I'm looking for natural cures, or even to lessen them a bit. I am trying to loose weight, and eat right, no caffeine, no alcohol, no smoking, kind of obvious stuff. The thing is, mine seem worse when I'm up and walking around, doing things, and much better when I lay down, especially if I'm on either side. I've been kind of afraid to exercise, cause I have them then, and just hate the feeling, but the doctor says I should exercise through them. Well, try to relax knowing that they are benign, even if they don't feel like it! I was in a store earlier today, and just had so many, they wouldn't let up at all! I finally got my shopping done quick, and left, almost in tears. You see how it is, even though I've had them for years, they are still so upsetting, so you're not alone!! Good luck! Val
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Linda Keast
Guest
5/13/2003
16:41:23
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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This is a great site! I have been taking HRT since 1999, before that I never had palpitations. Within 3 months of starting the pills, the palps started, too. My GYN says that in his opinion, they are not related, my cardioligist says there's a good chance they are. Who to believe? I've had EKG's, holter monitors, thyroid checks, ultrasounds, stress tests--my cardiologist is very thorough! Even though every test came back as a normal heart, every time I have an episode, I think I'm going to die! After reading these messages, I have hope that he's right. I've been keeping track the last month or so and do believe that they actually are happening 10 days out of the month--just like my monthlies used to be. Does this mean if I ever get all the way through menopause, they'll quit??!! Anyhow, just reading that other women out there are having the exact same thing makes me feel better. Thanks to all of you!
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Theresa
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5/13/2003
17:14:38
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi,
Thanks for posting a response. I just wanted to let you know that my holter monitor came back normal but, they did find one thing wrong with me. I'm pregnant lol I would never have dreamed it didn't even cross my mind. The doctor thinks the palps were related to the pregnancy hormones and also the change in heart rate and blood flow. Also something else you may want to check. My father is hypoglycemic and I think I may be too. According to what I've been reading it came sometimes be an early pregnancy side effect. Anyway to get to the point palps, lack of energy, sweats ect. are all signs of this so you may want to check it out. I found that if I eat cereal, doughnuts or any other sweets for breakfast I'm hungry within an hour. On the other hand if I eat a protien breakfast like eggs I feel great for several hours. Just a thought.
Thanks,
Theresa
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Linda Keast
Guest
5/13/2003
23:16:34
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Someone else mentioned the hypoglycemia theory to me also, mainly because the symptons all seem to be worse if I'm hungry, slight dizziness--actually lightheadedness, not dizziness--headache and the palps. Within just an hour or so after eating, I feel pretty good again.I'll have to mention that to my cardiologist next visit and see what he thinks. At this point, I'm willing to believe just about anything! Thanks!
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Jean
Guest
6/16/2003
16:42:47
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I think that low blood sugar levels can effect the palps.Also seasonal allergies I think anything that can stress your system can bring them on. With me, many times the palps start about 20 minutes after eating. I think it's a good idea to keep records of any foods or situations that bring on the palps. I also keep a record of the palps and my menstrual cyle. I've had them very bad the past few months. Always 4-5 days before and after my period. After a couple of months you can see the correlation. My Dr. prescribed Klonopin. I take 1/2 pill its doesn't always get rid of the palps but it relaxes me enough that I can sleep, and lack of sleep isn't good for palps. I know that the palps aren't going to kill me, I would have been dead by now(I've had them for 10 years). They are getting more intense. Also my period is more irregular. I get the by-geminie ones non-stop for hours. I try to accept the fact that they are not going to kill me, and that my heart doesn't beat like other peoples. Don't get me wrong I still get mad as hell when they happen, but I just stress myself out to much if I focus on them to much.
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Linda
Guest
6/17/2003
16:06:40
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Does anyone else notice that the palps seem much worse when it's all quiet around you? I try to keep myself busy and around a bunch of people when I'm having problems, so I can't hear my heart beat. Even knowing I'm not going to keel over dead, it stresses me out so much more to listen to it beat! Went to the cardiologist for the final results from all the tests--everything is normal and he told me (AGAIN!!) that stress is a huge trigger of the episodes so I've been trying to not let the things I have no control over bother me so much--like that's easier said than done! Maybe some day it'll just all go away, since it all started with menopause and the HRT pills, when I stop taking them the palps will quit. Anyone had this happen??
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lee
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7/03/2003
04:59:25
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi, I'm 28 and I just started to get palpatations in the last 6 months. It all started when I went on the ortho-evra patch, and now, three birth control pills later, I still get them. I've stopped taking the pill, and I hope that helps. My chest hurts and the pain goes thru to my left shoulder blade. I have been to a cardiologist and a gastro doctor who currently has me on Nexium and Zelnorm! Has anyone else experienced the palpataions along with chest pains? I can't stop worrying, I'm obsessed with them! Thanks Lee
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Linda
Guest
7/03/2003
16:37:04
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Man, that would worry me too, mainly because of the chest pains. One of the things my cardioligist always ask is-"Are you having any pain in your chest" Did yours do all the tests--EKG, echocardiagram, holter monitor and treadmill test? If they did that and the test results are all normal, then it very likely is the birth control pills. Those things have some wicked evil side effects! The Nexium is basically for heartburn or GERD, right? The other one I'm not sure what it's for. Hopefully by stopping the pills the palps and chest pain will stop. I know I worry obsessively about just the palpitations, so I can imagine what you're going through. But remember--stress is a HUGE trigger of the palps, and if all the tests show normal, you need to keep reminding yourself nothing is REALLY wrong with my heart and try to stay calm. We have a place on the beach in San Diego that we go to on vacation and I've found I can relax myself by focusing on the "happy place" and visualizing watching the ocean and being calm, this sort of thing might help you, too. Let me know how you're doing, it helps to have others to talk to that are experiencing the same thing!
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Melinda
Guest
7/10/2003
00:43:11
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi everyone,I'm 30 and I've had palpatations for 10yrs.The first one I had I thought I was going to die,and I saw a bunch of different docs and since it took them so long to give me proper diagnosis I developed anxiety/panic attacks.So,now for 10yrs I've been dealing w/palpatations/anxiety and panic attacks.I do good for awhile then I hit bottom again,right now I'm at rock bottom again,I'm scared to death to drive my car for fear of killing over and injuring my kids or other innocent drivers,and I constantly check my heart rate basically I'm driving myself nuts.Could any of you describe what a palpatation feels like to you,or any help getting past the fear.Thanks!
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Linda
Guest
7/10/2003
15:30:51
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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When I get an "episode" (sounds so much better than an "attack", don't you think?) it usually starts out with just a flutter, but soon it feels like my heart is actually quivering in my chest-I swear I can feel it doing it. Kind of like bird wings in there. Sometimes, it feels like my heart actually flips over. This is very unsettling. Sometimes, it's just a rapid heartbeat--I clock it when it does this, usually it's at about 88-90 beats per minute. I don't usually get too upset unless it clocks out at pretty close to 100 beats per minute. However since my Dr put me on tenormin, it hasn't gone that high very much.
What was your Dr's diagnoses? Is your condition life-threatening? Is it one that COULD cause your heart to stop? Are you on any kind of medication to control the palps? If, after all the tests, your Dr can assure you that your heart is healthy and won't just stop or cause a heart attack, then it's all a mind thing. When mine start and scare me half to death, I have to very consciously sit myself down and tell myself "this will not kill me, my heart is fine, this will not kill me, my heart is fine" It's such a scary feeling when it does it, your natural reaction is to tense up, concentrate solely on the palps and wait for something bad to happen. And besides which, you are so young! Mine didn't start until menopause when I started taking hormones. Do you take birth control pills? They act the same as hormone pills and have much the same side effects. I know it's difficult, but if your Dr says it's not life threatening, and you trust the Dr, you can't let this rule your life. Stress is a HUGE trigger of an episode, every time you get an anxiety attack, it feeds the palps and makes them worse. Especially since you're so young and have children, you deserve not to suffer like that. It's easy for me to say it's a mind thing--but it truly is. I tend to ask myself every time it starts--OK, is this worse or no worse than I've had before? If it's no worse--well, it didn't kill me before, it probably won't this time, either. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being BAD--anything less than 7, I decide to worry about "tomorrow". Keeping busy helps, with lots of noise around so I can't hear it. ANYTHING that causes a distraction & helps to take your mind off it helps. I've had it 5 years only, but since my Dr says my heart is fine (and he checks it every 6 mos) I figure if it was serious, it would have killed me by now.
Let me know how you're doing, just knowing there are more of us out there helps a lot!
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Theresa
Guest
7/10/2003
17:21:03
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi,
I started this thread. I am now 16wks pregnant. I have almost no palps anymore. I have to admit I was scared to death for over two months but, when I stopped worrying they became less frequent. I also started taking 400mg per day of magnisium and it has lowered my pulse and for the most part eliminated the palps (PVC's in my case). I also worried for a while because my heart rate which was normally in the 90's now stays between 96 and 108 (once again thanks to pregnancy). Please try not to worry it only makes things worse.
Theresa
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Christie
Guest
7/16/2003
05:09:21
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I am 34 and on HRT, for the last 1 1/2 years I have been having HPP (some severe some flutter)
The last couple of weeks I have had severe palps, heart flips, and now chest pain which is relieved with nitro. I was in the local hosp and they did
EKG, cardiac enzymes, stress test, ultrasound of heart and now on an event monitor. The only thing this far out of order is slightly low Pottassium. I am worried and confused at the same time. What are your thoughts. Thanks Christie
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Linda Keast
Guest
7/17/2003
15:36:11
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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You know, this low potassium comes up quite frequently, from what I've been reading. You're so young to be on HRT already! Has the event monitor shown up with anything yet? Also, I know thyroid problems can cause palps, too, have you had that checked out? It's so irritating that so often the drs can't specifically say what causes the palps and all the stuff that goes with it. I'm becoming truly convinced that hormone levels have a great deal to do with it. I know, in myself, that they are worse around the time I would have had my period, if I was still having one. Hopefully all your tests will come back normal, but as far as I'm concerned, that doesn't really help us any because there's no real CAUSE for any of it! If they are normal, tho, just remember stress is a huge trigger of all the symptoms. And if they do find something wrong, at least you have a definite cause and most likely it will be treatable with medication. Let me know what you find out!
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Christine
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7/18/2003
19:25:28
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I'm 32 yrs old and have had heart palps for several years, but untill recently they were always just that fluttering/flip-flop feeling in your chest. In the past few weeks though I've had a few palps that caused me to see spots and then black..It only lasts a few seconds and luckily I have either been sitting down when happened or was able to catch myself. (Once I was driving, that was BAD !!) After the attacks (or whatever you want to call it), I end up with a severe headache and I feel stupid..(By this I mean I can't think strait and feel like I'm drugged or something, usually I don't feel mentally "normal" again for a good 12-24 hrs..) Do any of you experience any side effects from your palps ??? Also, I noticed that some of you have mentioned thyroid problems...I am hypothyroid- but I have been for years and never had side effects with palps...Is there something about a thyroid problem that can cause palps ?? I would appreciate any input....
Thanks
Christine
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Linda
Guest
7/18/2003
23:13:14
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I have to say, that sounds really bad! Are you prone to migraines at all? I do hope you have talked to your doctor about this and he's doing a bunch of tests. That definitely sounds like something that needs to be checked out right away. As far as the thyroid goes, it must have something to do with palps because I have to get blood work done every year to check the thyroid level of whatever they check for. Are you on any kind of medication for the palps, or taking HRT or birth control pills? I'm sure you've had them checked out before--what kind of tests did they run on you? If for some reason you have not told your doctor about all this--please don't waste any time doing it! The seeing spots and then black, combined with the "feeling stupid" could mean something entirely unconnected to the palps. Let me know what you find out, I'd really like to know>
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Dana
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7/21/2003
19:53:51
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi Melinda,
I am right there with you. I have had heart palps on and off for 4 years now. Checking the pulse that would be me. We need to talk.
Dana
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Amie
Guest
7/24/2003
18:55:57
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi there!
I know this is a little off topic, but this chat has huge significance to me. I'm 23 years old, and I probably started getting palps when I was 11, but in recent years they have been getting worse. Once, when I had an ECG, the doctor told me they were normal as long as I don't get 6 in one minute, in which case I'd go into V-TAC. Is this true? Because lots of times I've counted far more than that,and though I know its best not to stress about them, twice now they have led to panic attacks. Thing is, rather than just being a symptom, the palps are generally the trigger for the attacks. Sometimes they're worse, but they are always there. My doctors haven't taken me seriously becouse I'm so young and very healthy-they prescribed anti-depressants for a year, but I refuse to take them because I am not depressed-just scared. What I need is to understand where the palps are coming from. I'm really interested in magnesium-I've never heard of that before. Has anyone heard of evening primrose oil helping? I recently read that it can help to deal with hormone fluctuations, which I thought might be one cause? I've been on birth control for several years now, and also thought that might be making them worse. Sometimes they do seem to be related to my menstral cycle. This is the first time I've read anywhere about anyone else with this problem. Any help would be deeply appreciated!
Thanx, Amie.
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Linda Keast
Guest
7/24/2003
20:12:01
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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First off, if I were you, I'd find me another doctor. You need one who will actually listen to you and be concerned if you're concerned and explain good enough that you're no longer scared half to death. That's ridiculous, just because you are very young and in good health doesn't mean there isn't something wrong. I absolutely HATE doctors who have a tendency to just pat women on the head and say we don't know how we're feeling and not to worry about it, little lady!
There, I feel better now! Anyhow, the first thing is--have your doctors run all the usual tests--EKG, ultrasound, treadmill test, holter/event monitor. If they have done all this and all tests are normal then you probably are really OK. However, if he just tried the antidepressants and didn't run all the tests, you need to find one who will. It doesn't sound like they've explained really well exactly what the heart itself is doing while you're having one of these episodes. Different causes will make the heart do different things, some life-threatening and some not. You need to have a list of questions for the doctor when you go in, especially since you're so young they don't take you seriously. BE FIRM! You pay good money for his services and if yours won't do it, find another one!
So far as the low magnesium goes, I, too have read quite a lot about it having some effect on heart palps. Low potassium is another one. Birth control pills will definitely affect them, as will the time of the month. You might want to keep a "diary" for, say, a month, and record what you're doing when they start, and what time of the month it is. I found that by doing this, I saw a definite pattern of when I would have my period, except I'm old and don't have periods anymore. But my palps and rapid heartbeat didn't start until I started taking hormone replacement, which is in essence, birth control pills! Remember--stress is a HUGE trigger--if your life is very stressful and you worry a lot or have a lot of upheavel in your life, this will start them. Part of a panic attack is greatly increased heart rate anyhow, so if the palps start a panic attack or it's the other way around, the end result is the same! Why did they put you on antidepressants? Do you exhibit any other symptons of depression or was it just the easiet thing for the doctor to do? Besides, one of the several side effects of antidepressants is accelerated heart rate, depending on what kind they gave you! Anyhow, most important, if they haven't run all the tests on you and even when you tell the doctor you're not comfortable with the diagnosis he gave you and you'd like more extensive testing--insist he do it or find a new one. The only way to deal with the palps and rapid heartbeat is to understand the underlying cause (or lack of cause) to know if it's going to kill you or if it's one of those "deal with it and get on with it" things! Let me know how you're doing, it really does help to know there's so many of us out here!
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Sara
Guest
7/29/2003
04:40:31
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I just turned 23 and my first palpatation came last Christmas Day. It lasted for 24 hours. I was fine for 3 months, then they came again, this time for 3 days. Having the paplations made me have panic attacks. When I have them I feel like Im going to die, but Im to young to die, and this is all that goes through my mind when they happen. I just got engaged last September and my life is just starting, and I feel like the palpataions hold me back. They are so scary. The third time it happened I went to the doctor and he had me wear the heart monitor for 24 hours. These ones lasted for 6 days. I thought they would never end, the only time I was content was when I was sleeping. I would just pray that by the next day when I woke up they would be gone (dissapointing when they werent) When my test results came back the doctor said, I have occasional PCs, and it was normal. But how is it normal to just get them out of no where after 23 years of being alright? The doctor gave me loresapam (generic valium) He wanted me to take them 3 times a day! Talk about being a zombie. Especially when Im having them and I think I dying, I dont want to put any drugs in my system, it just dosent seem right. I was wondering if anyone knew if the Depo shot (birth control) could have anything to do with it. I am know on Ortho Evera since I been on the patch it has only happened once, but every day I live in worry that they will strat again. Any advice on handeling this would be great!
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Theresa
Guest
7/29/2003
14:56:03
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi,
I am the person who started this thread. I took the depo shot once over two years ago after my daughter was born. I can only tell you that after all the thinking I have done over the last several months I think it could be a cause. When I was on the shot Several times I would wake up and feel like my heart was beating out of my chest and sweating. My hair started to get thin and I spoted constantly. After the shot started to wear off the same symptoms continued for a while and I bled heavier than I ever had and passed fist sized clots. The bleeding would also stop for several day only to gush when I least expected it. I did not feel back to normal for about nine months. This all has left me wondering if when I became pregnant with my current baby did depo make me hypersensitive to the pregnancy hormones in my body? And if it did is that why after having five other pregnancies with no palps I was suddenly plagued with them? These are two quetions I will never be able to answer but, I have my suspicions. I can tell you that taking 400mg of magenisium a day will help with the palps at least from my experience. I know what you feel like. If you can don't go the medicated zombie route. When they happen tell yourself they will end and don't let them stop your normal activities. I let them keep me down and feeling like something terrible would happen for over three months. Not until I stopped letting them controll me did I start to feel better and notice them less and less. I hope this helps you.
Theresa
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donna
Guest
8/05/2003
20:29:12
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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hi i have been suffering from palpatations and panic attacks for nearly a year ( im 24 ) and it is the worst experience ever. when you get them u panic even moe and it makes it worse. i have tried councilling, hypnotherapy and reflexology but nothing is working. the doctor prescribed me with anti depressants but i refused to take them. i have just come out of a rocky 5 yr relaionship and think that may have started them ??? i go a few days when im fine but they keep coming back. i feel tired and dizzy and out of sort. nobody ever understands and thinks im mad. is there a cure ? will i ever have a nomal life again ?? please email me if there is anyone else out there whos had enough !!!
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Linda
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8/05/2003
21:23:09
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Donna, you didn't say if your doctor did anything other than prescribe anti-depressants. Does anyone notice that so many doctors just prescribe anti-depressants as if we're all crazy or imagining these palps????? I guess I can understand that, so long as they also have all the tests done--EKG, stress test, holter moniter, ultrasound, thyroid check--and all those tests come out negative. HOWEVER, depending on the drug prescribed, palps and anxiety are one of the side effects. Who wants to go around all drugged up and like a zombie and STILL have palps! That kind of medication only masks the problem anyhow, we need to understand what's causing them in the first place. once again--stress is a HUGE trigger, I'm convinced that hormone replacement and/or birth control pills affect them, as does your hormone level at any given time of the monthly cycle. Keep a record of what you're doing, eating and stessing about. Take control of these things, if you've had all the tests done and it's not a life-threatening thing that you're not going to fall over and die from--you need to be stronger than the palps. Tell yourself--this won't kill me, this won't kill me--I'm the boss here, not these stupid palps!. Find yourself a "happy place" to take your mind off them. Most definitely, coming out of a bad relaionship could start them, especially if you didn't have them before and the doctors find no medical reason for them. Whether they're caused by stress or hormones or whatever reason--you're not mad and I, for one, understand exactly where you're coming from. My husband happens to be very understanding when I'm having an "episode" but too many people that haven't experienced them think you're being silly. Don't let that bother you. We know they're real and you just need to find the one effective way that will help you cope with it. If you haven't seen a doctor--see one immediately, one that will do all the necessary test to either pinpoint the medical problem or be able to assure you that these palps are not a medical problem and are mostly just an annoyance that is a big pain in the butt. The moodiness and general "out-of-sorts' does sound hormonal, there are many causes and types of dizziness. For instance, when I'm having an episode, I feel cranky and dizzy--not room-spinning dizzy, but sort of inside my head dizzy everything kind of slides sidewards. Hard to explain but definitely there. Anyhow, I keep hoping that since none of this started until I started menopause, that if I ever FINISH menopause, it'll all just go away! Just hang in there, get a doctor to do the tests if you haven't already, it's very important to know that they won't kill you and you need the tests to rule out the serious causes, and write anytime, it helps to know there's more of us out here!
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Sheryl Shucart
Guest
8/07/2003
02:00:36
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I just may be the queen of testing when it comes to these darned heart palps. I am 43 years old and have been having episodes (monthly) for a year now. The doctors starting with meds for high blood pressure, then the holter monitor, echo-cardiograms, stress tests, thyroid tests, liver panels, etc. I too am sick of the feeling I get when they start because I know that I will be out of it for 5 - 10 days. I tried the depo (birth control) shot and since it has only been 2 weeks I have no answer from that. I have tried herbal drinks and yoga. I thought because I work with handicapped children that it could be stress, but why would it come only monthly. Doctors don't understand hormonal imbalance or what? I would just like some answers. This sight helped me to know that at least I'm not mad. Sheryl
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Jean
Guest
8/07/2003
06:31:15
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I am 37 years old and have heart pals for three years. at first people thought I was cray. after a series of test I have what the cardi calls Sinustachicardi. I am not sure I believe that. Currently I am on Bete blokers. I still have some palps yet not as often. I am so glad I found this sight. I feel so alone at times.
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Sally
Guest
8/08/2003
04:12:23
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi: I did another post, but then read into this one.
I am 39 and have been expreiencing palps (skipped Beats) for 7 years. At first very short mild episodes, but more lately. Lasting longer. First a couple of hours then a day. Now I have had them for the last 7 days. And they just don't want to go away. They scare me to death. The Dr. prescribed a beta blocker, but I have read bad things about them, so I haven't taken them yet, I was hoping the palps would go away on there own. Does anyone take a beta blocker for theirs. ??? I sometimes feel like they are coming every other or every beat, then they space out a little. Or a few minutes will go by. I never no if I should be going back to the Dr.
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Linda
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8/08/2003
15:42:20
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Yes, I take a beta blocker for my palps. It has helped a lot and I haven't noticed any weird side effects that I can specifically say are from the beta blocker. I take several other prescriptions also but I've taken them all longer than the beta blocker and no new side effects have shown up. The beta blocker does seem to help most of the time, although I do still have months that are bad for the palps. I have determined that those months I also have more hot flashes and night sweats, which still leads me to believe a lot of this whole palpitation thing is related to hormones! Does anyone out there go to a female cardiologist or female gynocologist that believes this also, men just don't seem to understand. Anyhow, Sally, go ahead and try the beta blockers, I think you'll find they may help.
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sally
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8/08/2003
23:12:23
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Thanks Linda for the reply. I haven't yet taken the beta blocker, but I have noticed the skipped beats had slowed down a bit. But I am still getting them.
We are going on vacation this week and I didn't want to try a new Med. while I was away. But I am bring everything I have just in case. I did see my regular Dr. Today, and she assured me that every thing was fine.
I do see a woman gyno, and am going to be asking her alot of questions in Oct. when I go, and the Cardiolgist is a man, I guess at the top of his game according to the Dr. I saw today. He is a specialist in electrophysiology and a teacher at one of the medical schools. I feel a little better about it today. But it is still hard to deal with.
Take care.
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TL
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8/09/2003
00:15:25
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Can heart palpatations kill you? I just started having them and the first one scared me beacuse it took my breath, are they normal?
Thanks
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Linda
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8/11/2003
16:06:21
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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That depends entirely on what is causing the palpitations. My sister has a condition where she also gets palps, but hers are caused from too much blood pooling in one side of the heart because it's not being pumped out properly. From what she tells me, that can send the heart into beating too fast and too irregularly which can result in death. She takes medication to regulate that irregular beat and coumadin blood thinner medication to prevent blood clots. That's why it's so important to see a cardiologist to rule out all the bad causes that can kill you. My palps, on the other hand, are not caused by a heart defect or a heart disease or any cause that could kill me. I take a beta blocker to slow down the heart rate because it's uncomfortable and very unsettling when I'm having an episode but if I chose not to take the meds and just let it beat fast or jump around in there or whatever it feels like doing that day, it wouldn't kill me, it'd just be uncomfortable. (Not worth that, believe me) You've probably already been to a cardiologist, but if not--be sure to go!
On another subject I've never seen addressed here-I went to the dentist the other day to get a tooth filled and while I was getting the novacaine shot, I got very light headed and pale and my heart rate went WAY up, so much so that we had to stop so I could sit up a while until it went back down to a more normal rate. My dentist said that it wasn't the novacaine itelf, but the epinephrine in the shot that helps the novacaine last longer and work better. This happened the last time I had novacaine, too, but I just figured that was nerves since I so hate going to the dentist. Since it has now happened twice----has anyone else encountered this? The dentist suggested one way around it was not to have a novacaine shot---yeah, like I'll do that in my lifetime! Anyone ever heard of this reaction before?
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Theresa
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8/11/2003
18:46:04
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi,
I was the one who started this thread. I have the same problem at the dentist and I like you thought it was my nerves. I had a tooth filled the other day and because I'm five months pregnant now my OB told me no Epinephrine in the novacaine. Well, that made me wonder what's in this stuff anyway. I did an internet search and found out alot. Epinephrine is a substance that holds the novacaine in place longer to make the shot last. Without the epinephrine novacaine can travel to other areas of the body if accidentally injected into a vein and cause numbness or slowing down of the heart and resperation. On the other hand Epinephrine is used to stimulate the heart and is used on heart attack victims. My dentist said every single person feels the flush and the heart pounding from it and not to be alarmed by it. All I can tell you is I didn't like that feeling and when I had novacaine without it the other day I was so happy not to feel that rush. The novacaine lasted long enough for the filling but, I was not numb three hours latter. I think from now on I will always request no Epinephrine in my novacaine. I read on a health board they also have another shot called cobaine which dosen't contain it either. By the way the reason you can't have it and be pregnant is it can cause an unborn baby to pass out. Isn't it amazing what they injected us with! No wonder there are so many people with problems.
Theresa
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Jean
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8/12/2003
16:45:50
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I have had 8 root canals since my palps have started, My root canal specialist does not use the epinephrine. I have not had a problem. It has a benefit because the novacaine dosen't last as long. My palps have been especially vicious lately. I have had the bygemenie ones(every other beat) for 4 days now. When this happens I usually go the the cardiologist just to make sure everything is OK. Again they get real bad about 5 days before and 5 days after my period. I have completely cut out caffeine. This hasn't stopped the palps but it makes them less intense.I can't feel them as stongly. Beta blockers made my palps worse. I've tried Toprel, inderal and tenormin. The only thing that works for me is the donnatal.Sometimes it will get rid of them, and sometimes it will slow them down to one every 4 or so beats.
This is going to sound really strang but. My Mother gets the palps. She gets them mostly after eating. This is not uncommon. She takes a Zantac (an over the counter acid reducer)an they go away. I've been on other web sites that said acid reflux can cause palps. Maybe this info might help.
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Sheila
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8/13/2003
05:41:31
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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To all those who have sent in their experiences, feelings, discoveries and recommendations, thanks. I have just started experiencing palpations about 1 week ago and they are really scaring me. I will take all the advice about calling my doctor to go in for tests. I was putting that off till I read your stories and suggestions. I am going through a stressful time right now and kept on saying to myself: "Oh, it's only because of the stress I am experiencing". We are also experiencing a lot of hot humid weather where I live, so I was telling myself it was due to that, also. I have been afraid to go to the doctor for tests for fear of finding out that I might have something wrong with my heart. But as time goes by and the episodes continue, I am thinking knowing is better then not knowing. Fortunately, I do not have a doctor who will pat me on the head and say:" Poor little girl, stop worrying your pretty little head about things and take this tranquilizer". I am also experiencing some gastric problems and a lot of these symptoms are symptoms that women sometimes experience with heart problems. Men's heart problems sometimes present themselves differently. So, again thanks to all who have sent in their experiences and I will bookmark this site and let everyone know what my doctor says.
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Sheryl
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8/13/2003
20:50:18
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I think hearing about similarities in other peoples problems makes me feel better. I have a routine when it comes to the palps. First it is just them, then that feeling of doom that centers in my chest. Then for some reason I feel like I have the flu (achey and tired), next I usually do get stomach problems and finally I get a break until they come again the next month. Since these do come monthly for most of us, I assume it is hormone related. I had all of the tests on my heart and even thyroid, liver, and stomach. And know what doc says? "There is absolutely nothing wrong". We know how we feel, but I really wish one of us were an M.D. Hang in there and try not to stress. It seems for me stress and heat make the palps aggrivated. Sheryl
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Linda
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8/13/2003
21:11:05
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Sheryl--that's me exactly!!!! I feel just like that when mine start, and I think, real quickly, what time of the month is it? Then when I realize it's the time I would be having a period if I had periods, I think--OK this is my period now, it'll be OK, in a few days it'll go away. I have to say, though, looking at the whole thing from a menopausal point of view (since that's when it all started for me) I'd much rather have the old cramps and a period every month!!! It was way less stressful. So every month I give myself the same old lecture--all the tests are normal, nothing is wrong with my heart, I'm not going to die from these stupid things!! Ahh, the joys of being a woman, isn't it just lovely! All of us need to hang together and support each other, at least we all know we're not going crazy.
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Sheryl
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8/14/2003
23:47:44
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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As far as palps being related to stress; I have had stress for most of my life. That's just how I am. However, I am 43 and this all started right after we took in a Korean exchange student (for 10 months!) So, at first I think her food is making me ill. Then I wonder if maybe Korea has had some strange virus. Not! It still hits monthly and it still drives me nuts. Sometimes doing the laundry or gardening will take my mind off of it, but when it is at it's worst, I can't do anything. It's like having a bad flu only you get it every month. There should be some relief. My doctor says my next step is an endocrynologist (spelling?). It gives me palps just thinking about it. We just all have to learn to stay calm. Sheryl
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Laura
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8/15/2003
04:10:37
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi, all... I know just how you all feel, I thought I was dying too. I am 33 years old with 2 small children and was petrified of sleep. Since June I've been on the sofa sleeping sitting up. For some reason it made me more secure. After alot of trips to the ER and sleepness nights, the doctors tell me my heart is great and there's nothing wrong with me. my doctor put me on a beta blocker 50 mg. a day and it has made a world of difference. I felt better the first day, but the only draw back is that I'm tired and my pulse has dropped but still normal. If anyone else is on a beta blocker, please let me know.......Laura
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Angela
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8/15/2003
07:17:19
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hello everyone. I am 32. I know exactly how you all feel. In April of 2000, I began having continuous palps for days straight. I was becoming another person. My husband and I made several trips to the ER. Each time I was told everything was fine and that my heart was healthy and I had nothing to worry about. I continued pleaing my case because I knew something was wrong with my body. At that time I had a high stress job as an Social Worker. I began asking questions around our office. My physician perscribed Prozac for my anxiety/depression. My symptoms got worse and I felt as if I was going crazy. I began doing some research and noticed that Prozac could cause increased anxiey. I started on Zoloft and a beta blocker Toporol (Spelling)in September of 2000 and things changed. I began feeling better. Unfortunately it did not last and I began having palps with my meds. I am now on Effexor and feel good most of the time until I have another. I was told that palps are no big deal and that I would have to live with them. Stress plays a large part in palps and I can attest to that. Stress management or some type of relaxation is great but you have to be willing to give it a try. For a long time I was convinced I was dying everyday and refused to relax. Now it is different. I stress alot less and take care of my self better than I did. I will admit that when I get them it does take me a minute or two to regroup.
Someone mentioned having palps before their menstrual cycle or PMS. I have noticed a week or two before my cycle, that I will have palps. So there has to be some type of connection to hormones. I also had problems laying on my side at night because of palps. I have great Blood Pressure. I have also that taking omega-3 caps help with relieving palps. I believe that I am also hypersensitive to Caffeine. I have palps after I drink sodas with Caffeine. I do not recall the site on the omega-3 at this moment, but I will find it and post another message. It is nice to know that we are not going crazy. Angela
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Linda
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8/15/2003
15:54:57
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Well, upon re-reading some of these postings--I think we all agree that stress and hormone/PMS has a great deal to do with all this. So many of us have been told the heart is healthy and nothing else is wrong to just dismiss that theory, no matter what the doctors say. It's kind of like when my kids were little and teething and with every tooth that came through, they'd get red cheeks, diaharea (spelled wrong,sorry) and a snotty nose. The doctor swore that one had nothing to do with the other---well, I'm the mom and I know better! In this case--it's my body and I know it has to do with hormones! Beta blockers have helped a lot, I've quit drinking Coke--big sacrifice, too!--and have cut out most other caffeine. I can still eat chocolate, but not all brands, some must have more caffeine than others. For those of you that have trouble lying down to sleep--I read that the reason the palps are worse when you lie down, especially if you lay on your left side, is because the heart shifts a little bit and is closer to the rib cage so you can feel the palps more because of vibration from the ribs. Makes sense when you think about it. It's nice to talk to you all, it makes it easier to suffer in numbers and not alone! By the way--does anyone know any men that have this problem????
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Sheryl
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8/15/2003
19:38:20
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Linda - Don't even get me started on men. When your kids are up with a 103 fever, my lovely man was snoozing all night. I really think that men have a 'different' type of stress. We women stress about children, work, bills, if our soap operas will be cancelled (ha-ha), and my husband says that he believes that I put the same amount of stress in a broken nail as in a conference at work. My sister did tell me that her brother-in-law had palps and ended up going to a psyciatrist. Now he is on anti-dep. I don't want to do that! I feel I am strong enough to conquer this on my own. I feel is someone put a 'name' to what we have, I'd feel a lot better. Sheryl
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Richard
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8/16/2003
04:36:29
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Yeah, tho I am about to turn 70. These palpatations started about a year ago. I was working out on the treadmill and "wham" I thought
I was going to croak. Went to my cardiologist, took another treadmill, and he said, richard, you are going great. Great, but he isn't experiencing these stupid palps! I am pretty convinced that stress does have a lot do do with this particular abnormality. Had a slight heart attack about two years ago and you just can't help but have a lot of anxiety after such an event. I admit that I am afraid to get back on the treadmill, as I experience that wham about two or three times during my exercise. Damn, I really don't want to stop exercising but,like a lot of you are saying, its scary!
AFter reading a lot of your comments, I have decided to "just live with it" but would like to hear from anyone who is exercising on a regular basis and "tolerates" the palpattions.
Richard
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Jean
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8/16/2003
14:15:14
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Richard-I excercise regularly. I walk and ride my horse every day. I was told by both my cardiologist and internist if the beta blockers don't help me (they increase the palps,for me)to get used to having palpitations. So I just keep going. I've been having them for 8 years. the last year they have turned into skipped beats every other beat. This sometimes last for hours. I will have them while I'am riding,walking,food shopping you name it.It's also been real hot and humid here, so when I'am working with my horse they have been bad. My palps have been PVC's which they say are benign. Just make sure that you get some of the palps recorded. Some palps are benign some aren't. Event monitors are great. It will record the palps when your feeling them. Because they don't always show up at the doctors. Since you have had a slight heart attack, you should get a nuclear stress test this shows if you have any blockages. Try to watch eating to much sugar,carbs, caffeine and alcohol(in my case I have to avoid all of them). good luck
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patti
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8/16/2003
16:09:48
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I am 35 years old. I have had palps for 10 years. They started when I was 3 months pregnant with my son and I have had them ever since. I have been to 3 cardiologists, and a 2 rthym specialists. I have had EKG's, Echo Card., Stress Tests, Enzyme Tests and recentely I just paid for a heart scan myself for my own peace of mind. All came back normal. I can not tell you how much this has ruined my life. I sympathize with each and everyone of you. I also suffer from panic and aniexty disorder which all of the doctors want to jump on and treat. I told them if they could find a treatment for my heart palps. I wouldn't need drugs for aniexty or panic. There are good days and days where I can not even get out of bed. Sometimes they sneak up on you when you least expect it, like in the grocery store and you have to leave your whole cart and go lay down in your car. I KNOW!! Trust me up until today and reading all your letters I felt like I was alone and had the stupidist doctors in the world who keep saying nothing is wrong. About 3 months ago I went to an electrophysyologist and he told me to take Omega 3 Fish Oil. I was very hesitant but am at the point where I will try anything. I take two a day and I have to say it has helped. Not totally, but about 50%. I didn't help right away. It took about 3 weeks. I also take 50mg of metropol (beta blocker) not every day, but when needed. I am at the point where when I wake up in the morning I know if it is going to be a bad or good day. That's when I take it. I hope this helps all of you.
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Theresa
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8/16/2003
17:22:59
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Patti,
I totally understand where you are coming from. I have never had these before until this pregnancy which is my sixth. I hope they go away after I have the baby. They are not as bad as they were at first. I have been taking 300mg of magnesium per day for the last three months and it has cut them in half. I now have 5 to 8 per day. They scared me so bad at first I thought I was dying. I have learned to cope and at times don't notice them until I stop and think are they finally gone? Then sure enough I will feel one. I wore a 24 hour monitor when this started had a physical and blood work all normal. The only thing the monitor showed was PVC's and it only detected four in a 24 hour period. I had myself so worked up a few weeks ago that my OB nurse practioner wanted me to take Paxil. I filled the prescription but, never touched it. Like you I am 35. I guess hormones and stress could have alot to do with this. My other children are 19yrs, 16yrs, 15yrs, 11yr, & 2yrs. This little one is due 12/29/03 and was a big shock to my husband of 18 years and myself. Well, I'm glad to have found someone else who started these durring pregnancy it is great to have company.
Theresa
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Jean
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8/17/2003
13:26:20
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I had some palps when I was pregnant. I would get very out of breath when going up a flight of stairs. Once my son was born that was 16 years ago they settled down till I was 38. they have gotten so bad since then. I get 40 to 60 palps a minute one every other beat and this can last for hours.It's very scarry. At this intensity they have not killed me. My Dr says if I'am not having any pain and I'am not passing out that they are nothing to worry about.This started last year. I am 49 years old.
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Mary
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8/18/2003
09:29:23
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi Everyone, I'm 31 & I started feeling the heart palps this year & thought I'd look to the net for advice before seeing a Doctor. It's been great reading your comments & has put me at ease alot! To describe the feeling I have, it's like my heart is beating up through the back of my esophagus, skips beats and leaves me with a slight sick feeling now and then. I am tall, & slightly overweight, but healty, I am fit (for my size), I exercise 4 to 5 times a week, lead a busy life at home & at work & try to watch what I eat. I drastically changed my diet last month, I started adding more fruit & veg & cut out all the fat intake to clean the system etc, my heart palps have become more frequent, and I have taken them to mean that I am not used to so much goodness!! But then again it has me worried. Reading these menopausal comments has me thinking too. Do I have anything to be concerned about? Thanks!
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Linda
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8/18/2003
16:27:02
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Well, there surely are a lot of us out there! Common consensus is--live with it, it won't kill you, I guess! Mary--if you haven't seen a doctor, be sure you do! You need to rule out the serious causes just to be sure. The beta blockers have helped me a lot, the magnesium is an idea, I'll have to look and see what's in my vitamins. The fish oil is an new one--anyone else heard of that?
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Sheryl
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8/18/2003
17:55:24
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I know that we have all accepted that what we are experiencing is most likely hormone related, but has anyone out there ever visited an endocrinologist? When I ended up the very first time in the e-room, the doctor on call suggested that I do a 24-hour urine test for problems related with my adrenal glands. Negative. Then my gyno suggested that same test because our symptoms are very similar to a tumor being on either your adrenal gland or pituitary gland. My family thinks I should see one . . . Sheryl
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Sarah
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8/18/2003
18:52:53
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I can relate my palpations to Mary. Like you I feel my palps in the back of my esophagus. I also get a slight sick feeling at times. I went to the doctor and they had me wear a heart holster monitor for 24 hours, after they lasted for 5 days straight. I was suprised when they said I had irregular PCs, but it was normal. I was schocked to hear it was "normal" since I had never had them before. I was on the depo shot for almost a year, and I attribute the palps to them. I think the depo shot confused my body into thinking it was going through menopause, since the shot completly stopped my peroid. I also lead a pretty busy lifestyle, and have a physical job, so I get a workout 6 days a week.
When the palps start and the sick feeling comes along, I just think that it must be nerves. I also started to have anxiety attacks do to this, scared that somethings wrong with me. Luckily I havent had any in almost 3 months (knock on wood) but still worry almost everyday that they will begin again. Now I only occasionaly get 1 palp every few days, but nothing constant. This net sight has helped me alot in knowing that I am not the only one, and other people know what I am going through. Even though my feiance knows everything about me, he just can not seem to understand how I feel, even though he trys. Its hard to tell someone how it feels when its just so weird and uncomfortable. Thank you to everyone who posts to this sight!
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Jen
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8/19/2003
01:59:23
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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This is so interesting to read about so many different women who also have this problem. I never imagined it could be hormone related. I've also been on birth control for many years, and I'm 24 now. I couldn't even think of anything that could be causing the palps because I know I am very heathy and active. Unfortunately I don't have any heath insurance currently, so I haven't been able to see a doctor about it. But it's been worrying me because the last couple of weeks it's been happening more and more frequently. It's never painful, but often uncomfortable. I can see how it could be stress related since I have been prone to anxiety problems in the past and feel overwhelmed at present. Even if there is no real "cure" for this, reading all of your posts helped me to relax a little about it. Everyone I'd talked to was clueless and even more concerned than I was, which did nothing to help the anxiety...
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Anne
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8/21/2003
02:04:18
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I have had different heart rhythms for 4 years now. I get sinus arrhythmia, sinus tachycardia to about 160 to 190 bpm, atrial tachycardia, pac's pvc's, mostly pac's (multiples of them which we all know are in the top of the heart. Junctional rhythms, acclerated junctional rhythms. I have even tried to have an ablation which was not successful. On a good day I may have maybe 40 or 50 episodes of misbeats, on a bad day 100's. I am on a beta blocker which does not seem to help with the misbeats but does keep the episodes of fast heart rate slower when they occur. I have had numerous ekg's, ct body scans, echo cardiograms, nuclear heart scan, numerous blood tests, numerous stress tests and seen some of the best cardiologists around and they can find no reason for my heart to do this other than the electrical system of my heart just started to mis function at 48 years old. They tell me that it shouldn't kill me. I have also been on various heart meds with nothing really helping much and pretty bad side effects. I have been hospitalized numerous times over the past 4 years with fast heart rates. I have learned to try and ride it out at home unless it goes on for long periods of time. I have had my fill of er's and hospital stays. It wakes me up almost every night and sometimes I have to sleep sitting up in a semireclining position. Can't sleep on either side as it makes them worse. I also experience daily chest pain that the doc's think may be associated with gastro problems which actually started when they started me on the drugs. I just wanted to say that I have researched this for 4 years trying to find some help with this, and some times there is really not a lot that the doctors can do about these various arrhythmias. Especially palpitations. I would also like to say that from everything I have read it is quite normal for people to get anxious about them. I know I do, but as we have read it only makes them worse, but easier said than done. There are so many people that are worse than I am and they manage to go about their lives so that is what I try and do. I am in a cardiac rehab class now to monitor my heart during exercise. Third tme! The good thing is to have a really understanding doctor that will do the appropriate tests to be sure your misbeats are benign, and try and reassure you without making you feel foolish about the anxiety these things cause. I have had some really compassionate doc's and some that made me feel pretty awful about the concern I have about my condition. Anything is easier to handle if you feel like you have compassion and support. I wish you all good luck!
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Anne
Guest
8/21/2003
02:04:20
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I have had different heart rhythms for 4 years now. I get sinus arrhythmia, sinus tachycardia to about 160 to 190 bpm, atrial tachycardia, pac's pvc's, mostly pac's (multiples of them which we all know are in the top of the heart. Junctional rhythms, acclerated junctional rhythms. I have even tried to have an ablation which was not successful. On a good day I may have maybe 40 or 50 episodes of misbeats, on a bad day 100's. I am on a beta blocker which does not seem to help with the misbeats but does keep the episodes of fast heart rate slower when they occur. I have had numerous ekg's, ct body scans, echo cardiograms, nuclear heart scan, numerous blood tests, numerous stress tests and seen some of the best cardiologists around and they can find no reason for my heart to do this other than the electrical system of my heart just started to mis function at 48 years old. They tell me that it shouldn't kill me. I have also been on various heart meds with nothing really helping much and pretty bad side effects. I have been hospitalized numerous times over the past 4 years with fast heart rates. I have learned to try and ride it out at home unless it goes on for long periods of time. I have had my fill of er's and hospital stays. It wakes me up almost every night and sometimes I have to sleep sitting up in a semireclining position. Can't sleep on either side as it makes them worse. I also experience daily chest pain that the doc's think may be associated with gastro problems which actually started when they started me on the drugs. I just wanted to say that I have researched this for 4 years trying to find some help with this, and some times there is really not a lot that the doctors can do about these various arrhythmias. Especially palpitations. I would also like to say that from everything I have read it is quite normal for people to get anxious about them. I know I do, but as we have read it only makes them worse, but easier said than done. There are so many people that are worse than I am and they manage to go about their lives so that is what I try and do. I am in a cardiac rehab class now to monitor my heart during exercise. Third tme! The good thing is to have a really understanding doctor that will do the appropriate tests to be sure your misbeats are benign, and try and reassure you without making you feel foolish about the anxiety these things cause. I have had some really compassionate doc's and some that made me feel pretty awful about the concern I have about my condition. Anything is easier to handle if you feel like you have compassion and support. I wish you all good luck!
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Theresa
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8/21/2003
03:44:41
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Anne,
I have worn a 24 hour holter monitor that only showed 4 PVC's in a 24 hour period. The only other thing it showed was sinus arrhythmia but, they said it was normal. Did they say what causes the sinus arrhythmia or what symptoms it may cause. To all who are wondering about the benifits of magnesium it works. I only take 300mg per day at the current time because of being pregnant. On bad days I only have about 6 to 10 PVC's. On great days I only have 1 or 2. The great days are getting more frequent and I don't know if it's because the magnesium has been taking more affect or if it's because my body is finally adjusting to this pregnancy. Good luck to all and lets keep searching until we find something that helps. To all of you wondering if birth control could be the culprit I think it could be. This is my sixth pregnancy and I never had any trouble until about 2 years ago when I took one depo shot. After taking it my heart felt like it was beating out of my chest at night. I think it may have made my body way more hormone sensitive. And if so that could be why this pregnancy made them flare up. I have noticed that my heart seems very fast at times after eating. This is espeacially true if I eat to much startch or accidentally drink anything with cafiene in it.
Theresa
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Annette
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8/21/2003
05:41:54
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hello All! Like you, I suffer from premenstral palpatations. I first noticed them when I was about 28 and going through tremendous stress. I didn't readily associate them with my cycle. My doctor put me through an amazing battery of tests, charging me a mini-fortune, in order to tell me that I had a "pretty little heart" and there was nothing wrong with me. When I tried to press the issue I got the feeling the doctor thought I was a psycho. Back then I was shy and retiring with authority figures. (what my husband refers to as "the good old days") I never mentioned the palps to that doc again, trying to ignore it for several years, though I was afraid of what was going on.
The palps continued, of course. I started marking the times and days I'd have them, then noticed the pattern. I finally tried mentioning this to my doctor--and got treated to another ECG (on a day they weren't happening!) and more encouraging words about my heart health. I changed doctors, searching, and what I found was that most doctors don't have a clue that there are physical symptoms like heart palpatations with PMS. Each and everyone put me through the same tests, each and everyone told me that there wasn't anything wrong with me.
I gave up on doctors and started to talk to other women. To my surprise, I found I was not alone. Several women I worked with also had palps related to their cycles. Just talking to them, especially those who had been through menopause, was enormously comforting.
I've tried magnesium, exercise, diet, with no improvement in heart rhythm or PMS. (though I felt better overall)As I age (I am 40) I find that the palps are sometimes stronger, longer, make me feel lightheaded; enough to make me wonder if I might drop dead. My PMS is getting worse, too, to the point where dropping dead might be preferable than dealing with the level of irritation I sometimes reach on a really bad day. I don't know if anyone else here has developed a sort of midlife Tourette's connected to PMS, but I find I can't keep myself from blurting out the first thing that comes to mind when I am PMSing. (usually the worst thing you can imagine!) It is something I have to be very mindful of. My mother thinks I need to start taking estrogen or wear a gag.
I am hoping that, like a few friends of mine with the same problem, that the palps disappear after menopause. Until then, I guess can live with them.
It was very nice to read your posts. Thanks for sharing your stories, and I hope mine might be helpful or comforting to someone.
Take it easy
Annette
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Sheryl
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8/21/2003
06:28:29
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi, I am 43. This whole menopause thing is making me very impatient. Like you, Annette, my docs told me that my heart was fine. I had that holter monitor, echo-cardio, stress, mvp test, etc. If we all feel this bad, why do none of the big medical geniuses seem to know what we're talking about. I finally switched to a woman doc, and even she thinks I am 'totally stressed' and need to relax. But as you say, it's hard to relax when you think each palp may be your last! Where's that hysterectomy (sp?) when you need it. Sheryl
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Mary
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8/21/2003
11:40:21
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Thanks Linda & Sarah for your advice & to everyone else, this site is so helpful!
My heart palps have stopped ... for now, but I am keeping tabs. The interesting thing is that PMS played a part the last time I had them, so I'm convinced that that's the cause and will be recording the dates. I will still visit the Docs (for them to tell me I'm okay & nothing's wrong) but better safe than sorry.
I will be reading more of your comments for suggestions & updates ... even though it's sad to say, but it's good to know I'm not alone in this & I thought the "Midlife Tourette" was bad enough (like it Annette!) What we woman have to go through!!
Fish Oil ... I've had Cod Liver Oil? Is that what you mean? Tastes bad, but is surprisingly good for you?!
Thanks, keep smiling!
Mary.
I think we have almost enough information about this to write a small booklet...
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Mary
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8/21/2003
11:43:34
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Thanks Linda & Sarah for your advice & to everyone else, this site is so helpful!
My heart palps have stopped ... for now, but I am keeping tabs. The interesting thing is that PMS played a part the last time I had them, so I'm convinced that that's the cause and will be recording the dates. I will still visit the Docs (for them to tell me I'm okay & nothing's wrong) but better safe than sorry.
I will be reading more of your comments for suggestions & updates ... even though it's sad to say, but it's good to know I'm not alone in this & I thought the "Midlife Tourette" was bad enough (like it Annette!) What we woman have to go through!!
Fish Oil ... I've had Cod Liver Oil? Is that what you mean? Tastes bad, but is surprisingly good for you?!
Thanks, keep smiling!
Mary.
I think we have almost enough information about this to write a small booklet...
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Jean
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8/21/2003
13:22:46
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Anne-I hear you! we are the same age.Part of the baby-boom generation. There are so many of us having this problem. Just about all of us have had the same reaction from Dr's. My Dr. said "if the bata-blockers don't work for you, get used to having palpitations".Beta-blockers work on adrenalin. Not the hormone that I think is my problem.
Dr's can only diagnose something if they have a specfic test for the condition. To me if there is a reaction there has to be a an action that caused it. I really think that the cause of palpitations needs to be researched. All of us realize the connection between hormons and palpitations. I remember before lymes disease was discovered lots of people had it, and suffered with it. It was a mystery till they came up with a test for it.Then it could be treated. This is not all in ours heads.
The thing is,the palpitations are not killing us(thank God) so it's so easy for the medical community to put a bandage on our problem. Send us home, and hope the palps will just go away some day, and they probably will. But when?
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Linda
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8/21/2003
15:51:12
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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This is great, all of us sharing all the same symptoms and all the things that drs don't know! While it is so true that they won't kill us--at least those of us that have them know they're real and we can help each other through it! Has anyone actually made it through menopause that had the palps before and doesn't now, or know anyone like that? It'd be nice to have something to look forward to, other than the palps just getting worse and worse until the day we die--of other causes, of course, since we have all been ASSURED that the palps and all accompanying problems WON'T KILL US!!!
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Peggie
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8/21/2003
22:28:24
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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I am so glad I found this forum. I, too, have been plagued with palpitations for about 3 years. However, I never had a problem before I started menopause (I'm now 52). I am convinced that it is somehow related to hormones - either the lack thereof or the huge fluctuations we experience when we're going through the early years of menopause. Has anyone read Dr. Northrup's "The Wisdom of Menopause"? Good book and in it she mentions that during these years our hearts can become very sensitive. I have never (until 3 years ago) had a problem with chocolate - now it makes my heart go crazy if I have too much. Caffeine can also screw me up. I was on HRT and felt wonderful but when the scare hit, I got off them. The night sweats were so bad that my OB/GYN put me on Effexor (a mild antidepressent) and the hot flashes/night sweat stopped but...the palps came back BIG TIME. Guess what? one of the side effects of Effexor is palps, so...I've taken myself off those and started using progesterone cream. It's only been a few days, the hot flashes are back (not too bad, yet) and the palps have calmed down. Anyhow, what I'm trying to convey is that we all seem to have hearts that are very sensitive to stimulants. This sensitivity seems to be caused by the hormone thing so maybe we need to find out what things we are eating and/or drinking that are stimulants and try cutting them out. I'm still drinking my diet cokes and I'm hoping I won't have to cut those out and I hope I can still have M&Ms once in a while. I'll try cutting out other stuff (coffee, Effexor, etc.) before I get so desperate I have to cut out my favorites! Anyone else have any experience with Effexor or have any ideas what we can do (besides drugs) to reduce hot flashes and night sweats. I'm sure gald we've found each other; the support is wonderful!
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Anne
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8/22/2003
17:20:59
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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To Theresa,
Theresa you mentioned your 24 hour holter monitor showed sinus arrhythmia. Mine have shown that as well. I have been told by my doctor that a lot of people have that and not to worry. I have also read in different articles that is is quite common and especially in children. I am a small person and my doc thinks that may be why I feel these misbeats so much. I was told it is the heart rate going up and down during a breath and some people's heart just do that more. I like everyone else wonder if all my problems have anything to do with hormones, some doc's have said maybe some doc's have said no. I am still having hot flashes and night sweats but these don't bother me much. It's this unpredictable heart that cuases me so many problems. Anyway, just wanted to tell you that is what I was told about sinus arrhythmia.
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Anne
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8/22/2003
17:21:01
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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To Theresa,
Theresa you mentioned your 24 hour holter monitor showed sinus arrhythmia. Mine have shown that as well. I have been told by my doctor that a lot of people have that and not to worry. I have also read in different articles that is is quite common and especially in children. I am a small person and my doc thinks that may be why I feel these misbeats so much. I was told it is the heart rate going up and down during a breath and some people's heart just do that more. I like everyone else wonder if all my problems have anything to do with hormones, some doc's have said maybe some doc's have said no. I am still having hot flashes and night sweats but these don't bother me much. It's this unpredictable heart that cuases me so many problems. Anyway, just wanted to tell you that is what I was told about sinus arrhythmia.
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Anne
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8/22/2003
17:21:02
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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To Theresa,
Theresa you mentioned your 24 hour holter monitor showed sinus arrhythmia. Mine have shown that as well. I have been told by my doctor that a lot of people have that and not to worry. I have also read in different articles that is is quite common and especially in children. I am a small person and my doc thinks that may be why I feel these misbeats so much. I was told it is the heart rate going up and down during a breath and some people's heart just do that more. I like everyone else wonder if all my problems have anything to do with hormones, some doc's have said maybe some doc's have said no. I am still having hot flashes and night sweats but these don't bother me much. It's this unpredictable heart that cuases me so many problems. Anyway, just wanted to tell you that is what I was told about sinus arrhythmia.
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Laura M
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8/23/2003
15:07:31
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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hello everyone, From what i read there are all sorts of types of palpitations. I have a normal pulse rate but my heart beats so hard. Not fast, just hard like it's coming out of my chest. druing the day I try to stay active and ignore it. sometimes hard to do, but at night it's so bad I hardly sleep. Been to the dr's and all is supposedly fine with my heart and I was put on a beta blocker but can't say it has worked real good. I'm 33 years old and have 2 small children, This has been going on all summer and I'm driving myself and family crazy. any ideas from anyone out there since the dr's don't have any besides to tell me I have an anxiety disorder. Which I might add I probably wouldn't have if the palps would go away. Any suggestions would be appreciated..........thankyou
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Sheryl
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8/25/2003
01:35:54
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Laura M - It's funny how understanding and helpful I feel when I'm not experiencing the palps. I do know that all of us had a doc that did extensive testing of our hearts. The fact is, there is nothing wrong in that area. I have that same beating and it usually happens at the base of my neck. During the day, you just get through it, but at night it is awful. My sister-in-law suggested sleeping pills. But I had the fear of not waking up. So, for me, relaxing really helped. Easier said than done, I know. But try nice hot tea (herbal) and a really warm shower or bath seemed to help. One night, I had three showers and two cups of tea just to get through the night. It seems to be worse at night. Don't know why that is. Hang in there. Sheryl
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Laura M
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8/25/2003
03:28:42
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Sheryl, this might sound funny but the last two times I was in the ER the dr's said that I had chest wall pain and possibly inflammation in my chest, just thinking that maybe the palps are from when my chest is swollen I can feel my heartbeats. Not a pleasant experience at all to say the least. But I'm trying to come up with my own theory. Are you on a beta blocker by chance? I don't think mine works because it's not a rapid heartbeat I feel but a normal one that is just as scary when it pounds. Thanks for the advice I'll give it a try. Laura M
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Sheryl
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8/25/2003
19:35:58
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Laura M - My problems all started just out of the blue about a year ago. I do work with handicapped children, but have been doing so for years. My doc kept suggesting stress. My blood pressure went through the roof. When I ended up in ER, everything seemed to stabalize within an hour. Maybe I am crazy, but this only happens monthly. I am not on any meds (except for bp) and I have just recently had the depo shot (for birth control), haven't had palps for 2 weeks. I feel like my old self again. But in the back of my mind I know that it could just get me at any given time. I start back to work (school related) in a week, we'll see how that goes. My heart beat was not necessarily rapid, just that I wondered why I could feel it. Just remember, doctors don't know everything. After thousands of dollars, I can tell you everything I do not have. Sheryl
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Nicole
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8/26/2003
05:24:39
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi everyone!! I feel like I am reading a story of my life when looking through all of these posts. I had my first palpitations when I was 19, then not again until my 5th month of pregnancy when I was 21. I wore a holter monitor and the cardiologist that read it said, "Your body may just be overwhelmed by the extra blood volume, if you pass out call 911." Thanks alot doc!! The palpitations were VERY bad throughout the rest of the pregnancy but seemed to subside a month or 2 after my daughter was born. I went through a divorce several years later and had terrible anxiety. With the anxiety came the palpitations and panic attacks. I was told to try Buspar, but was so anxious that the thought of taking medication made me have panic attacks, weird but true. I was also not taking birth control anymore but did not attribute the palpitations to anything but the stress level. However, in hindsight, I wonder if the hormone relationship did actually have something to do with it. I am almost 32 now and have gone several years without any noticeable episodes. I would have an occassional palpitation but nothing that scared me. Recently however, they have come back with a vengence. Stooping, eating too much, simply drinking fast, laying down at night, even when I'm sitting here posting feeling pretty relaxed, they hit me. The catch is, I have been off of the pill now for several months. I'm wondering about the hormone connection again. I have had thyroid tests, an ekg, an echo and the cardiologist assures me that my heart function is normal. Has anyone here ever had a physician that told them that hormones really do have something to do with the irregular beats. I never brought this up with the cardiologist, because I never thought of it, and he didn't ask.
Thanks for all of the posts on this board and the willingness to share your stories. It really does help to know you aren't the only one.
Nicole
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Jean
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8/26/2003
13:31:16
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Nicole- I did ask my my cardiologist if hormons (perimenopause for me)could be causing my palps to get worse. He said yes. But in the next breath told me he dosen't get involved with hormons. I don't go to him anymore. My gynocologist said she never heard of that being a problem with menopause. She told me to see an endocrinologist. I have an appoinment.
I've had the most luck lately by not having any caffeine,refined sugar,even juices or processed food(anything that would spike blood sugar levels). It's that idea of eating only whole foods.
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Linda
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8/26/2003
16:09:53
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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My gynocologist says the hormones do not play a part in the palpitations, etc, my cardiologist and family doctor both say yes they do. I talked to my family doctor just last week and he said basically every person is different, every medication you take has some kind of adverse reaction and women's hormones in particular are very sensitive to outside influence. For example, I cannot take the allergy drug of Allegra, which if fexofenadine, but I can take the allergy drug Claritin, which is loratadine (or something close to that). The Allegra just makes me feel awful, speeds up the palps and irregular beats to the extent that I just quit taking it, after a couple of weeks off it, I was back to my "normal" palps. Drs really don't know much more than we do about them, I've learned more from you guys on this site. I think the important thing is to know what they're NOT caused from and learn, usually the hard way, what triggers our own personal episodes and avoiding those things. Since I got VERY MAD this morning at something someone did as soon as I walked in the door and immediately got my heart rate started-----obviously that's one of my triggers! Hang in there, ladies and the occassional gentleman--we can get through this. I wonder--is it true, what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger??????????????
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Sheryl
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8/30/2003
00:26:57
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Jean-I have been chomping at the bit on whether to go to the endocrinologist or if they are going to give me the same run around my other three docs did. I sure would like to know the results of that and what testing was needed. I know I sound like a baby, but after all the heart tests and liver panels and blood taken, I just want to be sure that this time it's a go. Thanx Sheryl
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Jean
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8/30/2003
14:43:19
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Sheryl-I haven't gone yet. I couldn't get an appointment untill November 3rd.
Have you tried not having caffeine,refined sugar,white bread and rice. The thing is it takes about 2 weeks for the caffeine to get out of your system. I felt like I was in a coma, especially late in the after noon. It was really worth it. To get rid of the excess sugar it took about a week. I cut back on animal proteins,not because I thought that this effected the palps. We were part of the black out and I didn't want to eat any meats cause the refigeration was out every where for 24 hours. I told my family we were going vegatarian for a few days. I felt so much better. I did some research about hormones in meats. They add estradiol and other hormones to fatten up the cattle. They also add antibiotics to their feed. I'am not against eating meats,where I live there are markets that sell hormone and antibiotic free meats.
Please don't think that I'am preaching, but this really has helped me, and my palps were constant. I still get them but they are so much more controlable with the mediation.
You should go the endocrinologist. We have to be primary in our own health care. If anything you'll known (hopefully) that you're O.K.
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LauraM
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9/01/2003
03:15:45
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi everyone again, I hopet things are getting better for all of you.I was wondering if any of you that are suffering from palps because of stress have tried reading a book by Dr. Claire Weekes? It is called hope and help for your nerves. It doesn't work overnight, I stil have the palps but it does put things in perspective. I started having palps when I developed chest wall pain, thought it was my heart and didn't believe the Dr's when they said it wasn't. So I'm reding the book and it sounds like me all the way. the palps are worst at night because I'm so afraid of them and I expect them. Maybe it's time for a shrink...... anybody ever went to one for anxiety disorder? thanks for listening....LauraM
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Cristina
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9/03/2003
05:18:47
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi, my name is Cristina. I read all of your posts regarding heart palpataions. It is comforting to know others feel, what I have been unable to explain! I am 28 Years old, and I have been experiencing palps and runs of irregular beats for about 7 yrs, they make me very sad and scared. I always assumed that I have this condition from my father, because he has been in the hospital several times for arrythimia, and he still has PVC;s. He has become very knowledgable, almost to the point where he has become his own "doctor". He has been taking L. Carnatine, Taurine and Magnesium, Co-Q10 along with the multi vitimans. He says it has helped him tremendously. I am just so scared that my palps will become long episodes and put me in the hospital. I believe that the palps and hormones have a direct correlation. I have never taken birth control pills, but I know when I am ovulating, and about to get my period, they are more prevelant. I have found when I am having palps, if I go to the bathroom (#2) it stops them a little. My worry, Is that I would like to become pregnant soon, and I dont want them to get worse, or have a problem while I am pregnant and cause me to feel bad mentally or physically. Does it get worse during pregnancy? Please email me with comments, answers, or questions. I find this very comforting. Thank You
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Linda
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9/03/2003
16:30:53
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Cristina--Welcome to our little group! First off--if you've been having palps for that long, I assume you've been to a dr and had all the tests, etc we've all gone thru to make sure it's not an abnormality of the heart?? If not--do so immediatley. Don't assume it's the same as your dad has, there are many causes but only a dr can tell for sure what it isn't. I didn't start mine until I started menopause, so I don't know about them being better or worse during pregnancy but I know some of our group has. You definitely need to talk to your doctor before you get pregnant and voice your concerns and see what he says. Most of us have found that a lot of the problem is mental--we are learning to "just deal with it" but it is very scary and that's why it's so important to have it all checked out! Good luck!
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Shandy
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9/04/2003
23:25:25
| RE: Heart Palpatations
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Hi Melinda and Donna. My name is Shandy and I'm 25 years old and I have been getting Palpatations now for 2 years. I have had 2 echograms done, a TEE done, 2 EKGS, Thyroid checked, and I have worn a halter monitor once. They say that I have anxiety attacks and I have been on Paxil CR all this time. The Paxil really helped and I went off of it for a month and a half and my anxiety was way out of control! So now I'm back on it and I'm still having some anxiety and palpatations. I do have mild mitral regurutation and a patent foramen ovale on my heart. My cardilogist assures me that both of theses are mild and should cause no problems. I hav |
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