Irregular Heartbeats and Nausea: When to Seek Help - Cardiology

More Info

---

When dealing with irregular heartbeats and accompanying symptoms such as nausea, it is crucial to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek further medical evaluation. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a range of symptoms over the past year, including episodes of chest tightness, shortness of breath, cold sweats, and irregular heartbeats. These symptoms can be concerning, especially when they are recurrent or associated with significant discomfort.


Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Irregular Heartbeats (Arrhythmias): The heart's rhythm can be affected by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, and underlying medical conditions. In your case, the irregular heartbeat you experienced, with a slow rate of 40 beats per minute during sleep and a rapid rate of 150 beats per minute during exertion, suggests that your heart is responding to different stimuli. While your doctor indicated that this is not a major concern given your age, it is essential to monitor these irregularities, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms.

2. Nausea and Vomiting: The nausea you are experiencing, particularly after starting Metformin for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can be a common side effect of this medication. However, the recurrence of nausea, especially when accompanied by irregular heartbeats and dizziness, warrants further investigation. It is essential to differentiate whether these symptoms are related to the medication, your heart condition, or another underlying issue.

3. Dizziness and Lightheadedness: The sensation of dizziness, particularly when you tilt your head or change positions, can indicate a drop in blood pressure or inadequate blood flow to the brain. This can be exacerbated by irregular heartbeats, which may affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.


When to Seek Help
Given your symptoms and their recurrence, it is advisable to consult with a cardiologist. Here are some specific reasons to seek further evaluation:
- Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to experience irregular heartbeats, nausea, and dizziness, especially if they are worsening or occurring more frequently, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation.
- Changes in Symptoms: Any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased frequency of palpitations, significant changes in heart rate, or new episodes of chest pain, should prompt immediate medical attention.

- Medication Side Effects: Since you are experiencing nausea and vomiting after starting Metformin, it is crucial to discuss these side effects with your healthcare provider. They may consider adjusting your medication or exploring alternative treatments.

- Thyroid Function: Your TSH level of 6 indicates potential hypothyroidism, which can contribute to symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and irregular heart rhythms. It may be beneficial to follow up on this with your primary care physician or an endocrinologist.


Conclusion
In summary, while your initial evaluation may not have indicated a severe issue, the persistence and recurrence of your symptoms suggest that further investigation is warranted. A follow-up with a cardiologist can help assess your heart's function, evaluate the irregularities in your heartbeat, and determine if any additional testing, such as an echocardiogram or Holter monitor, is necessary. Additionally, addressing the side effects of Metformin and monitoring your thyroid function will be crucial in managing your overall health. Always trust your instincts; if you feel that something is not right, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.