Is It Palpitations? Heart Symptoms and Their Causes

Is it palpitations?

Last week, I visited a pulmonologist.
When the doctor asked where I felt uncomfortable, I mentioned that sometimes I have difficulty breathing at night and occasionally feel a bit short of breath.
The doctor took some X-rays, which showed nothing unusual.
Then, using a stethoscope and checking my pulse, the doctor asked if I was feeling anxious.
I replied no, but the doctor noted that my heart rate was elevated.
Subsequently, I was referred to a cardiologist for further evaluation.

At the cardiology appointment, I underwent an electrocardiogram (ECG), and the doctor indicated that everything appeared normal.
The doctor also noticed two lumps on my neck and asked my father if I had them since childhood.
My father replied that he hadn't paid attention to them.
The doctor advised me to have my thyroid checked next week.

After the appointment, when I had blood drawn, I inquired about which department to consult for the thyroid examination, and I was told to see an endocrinologist.
So, the following week, I made an appointment with the endocrinology department.
During that visit, the doctor mentioned that the blood tests showed no thyroid issues.
The doctor then asked me where I felt uncomfortable, and I reiterated that sometimes I have difficulty breathing at night, as if something is pressing on me, and I occasionally feel short of breath.
The doctor mentioned something about palpitations, but I didn't hear clearly, so I am asking if this is related to palpitations.
Currently, I work in the scrap metal industry, where I am exposed to aluminum fumes daily.
Could this job be related to my physical discomfort?

Shu Shu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/12

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, palpitations are when you can feel your heart beating.
Each person's constitution is different, and reactions to various stimuli can vary.
It's hard to say whether exposure to aluminum fumes is related to your discomfort.
It might be best to start with some medications to control your heart rate and observe the situation.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/07/12

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that can be quite concerning, including difficulty breathing at night, palpitations, and a sensation of pressure in your chest. These symptoms can be distressing and may lead to anxiety, which can further exacerbate the feelings of discomfort.
From your description, it seems that you have already taken some important steps by consulting with both a chest specialist and a cardiologist. The fact that your heart tests, including the electrocardiogram (ECG), did not reveal any immediate issues is reassuring. However, the symptoms you describe, particularly the sensation of not being able to breathe and the feeling of something pressing on your chest, warrant further exploration.

Palpitations, or the sensation of feeling your heart beating rapidly or irregularly, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include anxiety, stress, caffeine intake, certain medications, and even hormonal changes. In your case, the stress from your work and possibly the exposure to aluminum fumes could be contributing factors. While aluminum exposure is generally considered safe in small amounts, chronic exposure in certain occupations can lead to respiratory issues or other health concerns, which might be relevant to your symptoms.

The sensation of tightness or pressure in the chest, especially when combined with difficulty breathing, can sometimes be related to anxiety or panic attacks. These episodes can mimic more serious cardiac issues, which is why it is crucial to rule out any underlying heart conditions. Since your heart tests have come back normal, it is possible that your symptoms are linked to anxiety or stress rather than a direct cardiac issue.

Additionally, you mentioned that you have been experiencing these symptoms at night. Nocturnal symptoms can sometimes indicate issues such as sleep apnea, where breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to feelings of suffocation or gasping for air. This condition can also contribute to palpitations and increased heart rate due to the stress it places on the body.

Given your symptoms and the potential for anxiety and stress to play a role, it may be beneficial to consider lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises can be very helpful. Reducing caffeine and ensuring you have a good sleep routine can also improve your overall well-being.

It is also advisable to follow up with your healthcare providers regarding your symptoms and discuss the possibility of seeing a mental health professional if anxiety is a significant concern. They can provide strategies to manage anxiety and help you cope with the stressors in your life.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, the normal results from your heart tests are a positive sign. It is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. They can help you explore the underlying causes of your symptoms and develop a comprehensive plan to address them.

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