Can Pectus Excavatum Cause Palpitations and Other Symptoms? - Family Medicine

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Pectus excavatum, commonly known as funnel chest, is a condition where the breastbone is sunken into the chest. This deformity can lead to various symptoms, including potential cardiovascular and respiratory issues, which may contribute to sensations such as palpitations. While your heart tests, including echocardiograms and Holter monitoring, have shown normal results, it is essential to consider how pectus excavatum might relate to your symptoms.


Can Pectus Excavatum Cause Palpitations?
1. Anatomical Changes: Pectus excavatum can alter the position of the heart and lungs within the thoracic cavity. This anatomical shift may lead to compression of the heart or major blood vessels, potentially causing palpitations or a sensation of the heart beating heavily.

2. Respiratory Function: The condition can also affect lung capacity and function. Reduced lung volume may lead to inadequate oxygenation, which can trigger palpitations or feelings of anxiety, further exacerbating the sensation of heart pounding.

3. Psychological Factors: As you mentioned, you have been experiencing anxiety and have been treated with SSRIs. Anxiety can significantly contribute to palpitations and a heightened awareness of bodily sensations. The interplay between physical symptoms and psychological factors can create a cycle where anxiety exacerbates the perception of palpitations.


Other Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation: As suggested by your mental health provider, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system can lead to symptoms like palpitations, especially in stressful situations. This can manifest as increased heart rate or the sensation of a pounding heart.

2. Thyroid Issues: Although your thyroid tests were normal, hyperthyroidism can cause palpitations. It might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether further thyroid function tests are necessary.

3. Electrolyte Imbalances: Sometimes, imbalances in electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, or calcium can lead to palpitations. If you have any dietary restrictions or health conditions that might affect your electrolyte levels, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Medications: Some medications, including certain antidepressants and stimulants, can cause palpitations as a side effect. It’s important to review all medications with your healthcare provider to rule out this possibility.


Recommended Next Steps
1. Consult a Specialist: Given your history of pectus excavatum and ongoing symptoms, it would be beneficial to consult a thoracic surgeon or a cardiologist who specializes in structural heart issues. They can evaluate whether your chest deformity is contributing to your symptoms and if any surgical intervention might be warranted.

2. Further Evaluation: If you haven’t already, consider asking for a pulmonary function test to assess your lung capacity and function. This can help determine if respiratory issues are contributing to your symptoms.

3. Mental Health Support: Continue working with your mental health provider. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in managing anxiety and its physical manifestations, including palpitations.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise can help manage anxiety and improve overall well-being.


Conclusion
While pectus excavatum can potentially contribute to palpitations and other symptoms, it is crucial to consider the multifactorial nature of your condition. A thorough evaluation by the appropriate specialists, along with continued mental health support, can help clarify the underlying causes of your symptoms and guide effective management strategies. Always communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your concerns and symptoms to ensure a comprehensive approach to your health.