Should You Visit a Hospital for Heart Palpitations and Discomfort?

Is it necessary to go to the hospital for a diagnosis?

Hello: Currently, I am experiencing episodes of sudden increased heart rate, which sometimes lasts for a while and is accompanied by discomfort such as chest tightness, left-sided chest pain (mostly mild), and occasional central chest pain (more severe but less frequent).
I often feel fatigued and dizzy (or with mild pain).
Additionally, during two health check-ups in the past three years, my heart rate was recorded at 98 and most recently at 112.
These symptoms have been ongoing for about 5 to 6 years, but since they are tolerable and have occasionally lessened, I have not sought medical attention.
However, my school requires a cardiopulmonary fitness test, and I would like to know if this could have an impact.
I also want to understand if there are ways to alleviate the discomfort.
Therefore, I am asking if I need to go to the hospital for this situation, or if there are any methods you could suggest to help resolve it? P.S.
I am not sure if it is related, but when I was 17 or 18 years old, I experienced a sudden loss of control on one side of my body while walking, which lasted for about an hour before gradually recovering (I did not seek medical attention at that time).
After that, I have experienced brief moments of mental blankness during exercise, and sometimes I feel weak when overly fatigued (though not severely).
I apologize for the lengthy description—thank you.

Zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/31

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it seems that insufficient physical activity during weekdays, combined with mitral valve prolapse and recent significant weather changes, has led to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, resulting in symptoms such as sudden heart rate acceleration, chest tightness, heart pain, fatigue, and dizziness.
This may affect your cardiopulmonary capacity.
It is advisable to visit a cardiology clinic for further examination and to consider taking some medication to alleviate the symptoms.
If you experience sudden weakness on one side of your body, it is recommended to consult a neurologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2017/03/31

More Info

When it comes to heart palpitations and discomfort, it is crucial to take these symptoms seriously, especially given your history and the duration of your symptoms. Heart palpitations can manifest as a feeling of the heart racing, fluttering, or pounding, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, and dizziness.
Based on your description, you have experienced episodes of increased heart rate (tachycardia), chest discomfort, and fatigue for several years. While you mentioned that these symptoms have been tolerable and have fluctuated in intensity, the fact that they have persisted for 5-6 years warrants a thorough evaluation. The increase in your heart rate during recent check-ups (98 bpm and 112 bpm) is also concerning, especially if these readings are higher than your baseline.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to visit a hospital or a cardiologist for a comprehensive evaluation. Here are a few reasons why seeking medical attention is important:
1. Underlying Heart Conditions: Your symptoms could be indicative of underlying heart conditions such as arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other cardiac issues. A thorough evaluation, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or even a Holter monitor, may be necessary to assess your heart's rhythm and function.

2. Risk of Complications: Persistent palpitations and chest discomfort can sometimes lead to more serious complications, including heart failure or even sudden cardiac events. It is better to err on the side of caution and get evaluated.

3. Impact on Daily Life: You mentioned that you feel fatigued and dizzy, which can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life. Addressing these symptoms can help improve your overall well-being and functionality.

4. Stress and Anxiety: Sometimes, palpitations can be exacerbated by anxiety or stress. However, it is essential to rule out any physical causes before attributing symptoms solely to psychological factors.
5. Exercise and Physical Activity: Since you mentioned that your school requires a cardiopulmonary assessment, it is crucial to understand how your heart responds to physical exertion. Engaging in exercise without knowing your heart's condition could pose risks, especially if you have undiagnosed issues.

To alleviate your discomfort in the meantime, consider the following strategies:
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate palpitations, so ensure you are drinking enough fluids.

- Limit Stimulants: Reduce or eliminate caffeine and nicotine, as these can increase heart rate and trigger palpitations.

- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help manage anxiety and reduce the frequency of palpitations.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to dismiss your symptoms as manageable, the duration and nature of your discomfort suggest that a medical evaluation is warranted. It is always better to be proactive about your health, especially when it involves your heart. Please consider scheduling an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms in detail and undergo any necessary tests. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Help for Heart Palpitations

Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing sudden sensations of my heart pounding or skipping a beat. I’ve checked my heart rate and blood pressure, and both are normal. Sometimes I feel a tightness in my chest, but I'm not sure if it's psychological. Whenever m...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, if there haven't been any significant issues for 24 hours, then there's likely nothing to worry about. This happens every July, and it could be related to the heat or other stimulating factors. Heart disease itself is not necessarily time-dependent. Should you co...

Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent palpitations (the kind where the heart beats very strongly, with a heart rate of about 75-80 during episodes, which is regular, but sometimes accompanied by mild pain). These episodes last for more than three hours, and I also feel ...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, it sounds like you may be experiencing autonomic nervous system dysfunction. If you are still feeling unwell, it would be advisable to visit a clinic and consider some medication. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Occasional Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Attention?

I would like to ask the doctor, because I don't experience palpitations often and I've noticed they don't occur under specific circumstances. I've looked through a lot of information and occasionally feel palpitations, but each time they are accompanied by che...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages. It is advisable to adjust your lifestyle and engage in regular exercise. However, if symptoms persist, it is recomme...

Should You See a Cardiologist for Palpitations and Shortness of Breath?

Hello Doctor: Five days ago, I experienced mild chest discomfort and palpitations (heart rate around 100). Resting while lying down helped alleviate the symptoms. The next day, the palpitations were accompanied by shortness of breath; however, lying down continued to provide reli...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, please come for a cardiology check-up at Changhua Hospital. We care about your health.