Heart Palpitations and Dizziness: When to Seek Help

Cardiac and dizziness issues?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing episodes of sudden heart palpitations and the need to breathe forcefully, or I feel sharp pains in my heart that resolve quickly.
Sometimes, these episodes are accompanied by dizziness, migraines, weakness in my limbs, and trembling.
After intense exercise, my blood pressure takes about half an hour to return to normal, and I also experience pain in the inner parts of my ears.
I had previous erosion in my ears, but I have been receiving regular treatment for that.
Could this be related? In the past, during health check-ups in elementary and middle school, heart issues were detected, and the doctor mentioned that my valves were not fully developed but would improve as I grew older.
However, my symptoms have been worsening recently, and I am unsure if I need to seek medical attention.

Christina, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/20

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, the entire symptom is caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction and is unrelated to the heart.
If you are concerned about any previous valve abnormalities and feel uneasy, you can return to the cardiology outpatient clinic for follow-up examinations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/11/20

More Info

Heart palpitations and dizziness can be concerning symptoms, especially when they occur frequently or are accompanied by other distressing sensations such as pain, weakness, or shortness of breath. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues, and it is essential to approach this situation with caution.

Firstly, palpitations are often described as a feeling that your heart is racing, pounding, or fluttering. They can occur due to various reasons, including anxiety, stress, caffeine intake, dehydration, or even certain medical conditions. Given your history of heart issues, particularly with valve development, it is crucial to consider that your symptoms may be linked to your heart's function. Valve problems can lead to abnormal blood flow, which might explain the palpitations and associated symptoms.

The dizziness and feelings of weakness or trembling you describe could be related to several factors. For instance, if your heart is not pumping effectively due to valve issues or other cardiac conditions, it may not be delivering enough blood to your brain, leading to dizziness. Additionally, if you are experiencing significant palpitations, your heart may not be able to maintain an adequate blood pressure, which can also contribute to feelings of lightheadedness.

Your mention of pain in the ears, particularly if you have a history of ear issues, could also be relevant. The inner ear plays a crucial role in balance, and any problems there could exacerbate feelings of dizziness. However, the connection between your ear condition and heart symptoms is not straightforward and would require further evaluation.

Given that you have a history of heart problems and that your symptoms seem to be worsening, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:
1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test can help identify any irregular heart rhythms or other electrical issues with your heart.

2. Echocardiogram: This ultrasound of the heart can provide information about the structure and function of your heart valves and chambers.

3. Holter Monitor: If your palpitations are intermittent, a Holter monitor can record your heart's activity over 24 to 48 hours to capture any irregularities.

4. Blood Tests: These can help rule out other causes of your symptoms, such as anemia or thyroid issues.

5. Stress Testing: This can assess how your heart performs under physical stress, which may be relevant given your symptoms after exercise.

In summary, while palpitations and dizziness can sometimes be benign, your specific symptoms, particularly given your medical history, warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to heart health, especially if symptoms are worsening or affecting your quality of life. Please consider scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist to discuss your symptoms in detail and to determine the appropriate next steps for your health.

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