the Connection Between Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Heart Palpitations

Recently, I have started to feel my stomach and esophagus pulsating like my heart?

Hello Doctor: I am 170 cm tall and weigh 70 kg.
About a month ago (on May 26), I woke up in the early morning with palpitations, shortness of breath, and a feeling of bloating in my stomach, so I went to a clinic for medical attention.
After the consultation, my palpitations eased, and I believed it was due to anxiety caused by the pandemic.
Subsequently, I experienced symptoms such as unformed stools and frequent bloating, along with a tendency to burp, and was diagnosed with gastroenteritis.
I then started medication, maintained a light diet, and exercised for 20 minutes every other day.
I continued to follow up at the family medicine clinic, and my condition showed that my bloating remained but was more stable compared to before.
I experienced bloating and the urge to burp around mealtimes, after eating, and occasionally when fasting.
At night, I could distinctly feel and hear my intestines moving more vigorously, but without pain.
One afternoon, I experienced similar peristalsis, and my stomach had similar symptoms, with continuous flatulence and burping for about half an hour, which has recurred since then.
Recently, I have been maintaining a light diet, exercising for 30 minutes daily, and my weight has decreased by 5 kg compared to a month ago, stabilizing around 70-71 kg.
My bowel movements have started to take shape, mostly green, with visible vegetables, and are slightly smaller than usual.
The bloating occurs mostly after meals, and occasionally I feel mild bloating when fasting, with occasional sensations of mild burning in my stomach and throat.
Recently, I have also started to feel that when I experience bloating, my stomach, esophagus, and heart seem to beat together, and this sensation is more noticeable when sitting.
After burping, the feeling tends to dissipate.
Another situation is that after sitting for a long time, if I quickly stand up and go up or down stairs, I might feel the same sensation of my stomach, esophagus, and heart beating together, but it goes away after a short wait for my heart rate to slow down.
However, I do not experience this feeling during exercise, and there is no pain or shortness of breath.
Given the current pandemic situation, my family doctor still does not recommend going to the hospital's gastroenterology department for related examinations, hoping to understand more after the restrictions are lifted.
I previously mentioned this situation to my doctor (at that time, I still had occasional more intense peristalsis), but he suggested it might be irritable bowel syndrome and prescribed medication to see if it helps, leading to my current condition.
Currently, since my stomach and gastrointestinal conditions are relatively stable (with less bloating and formed stools), I have finished the medication from the family medicine department and want to continue adjusting through exercise and a lighter diet.
I would like to ask the doctor what the sensation of my stomach, esophagus, and heart beating together might indicate? Besides gastroenterology, which other department should I consult for further examination?

Awei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/02

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is advisable to cooperate with the physician for treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
If symptoms persist, it is still necessary to visit the hospital to confirm the condition.

Reply Date: 2021/07/02

More Info

Understanding the connection between gastrointestinal symptoms and heart palpitations is crucial, especially when experiencing discomfort in both areas. Your symptoms, including heart palpitations, gastrointestinal distress, and the sensation of your stomach and heart beating in sync, can be quite concerning.
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the gastrointestinal (GI) system and the cardiovascular system are closely linked through the autonomic nervous system. This system controls involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate and digestion. Stress, anxiety, and other emotional factors can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which may cause both heart palpitations and gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and discomfort.

In your case, the sensation of your stomach and heart beating together could be attributed to several factors:
1. Increased Sensitivity: When experiencing gastrointestinal issues, individuals often become more aware of bodily sensations. This heightened awareness can make it feel like your heart and stomach are beating in sync, especially if you are experiencing bloating or discomfort.

2. Diaphragmatic Movement: The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity (where the heart is located) from the abdominal cavity (where the stomach is). When you breathe, the diaphragm moves up and down, which can cause sensations in both the heart and stomach. If your stomach is distended or bloated, this movement may be more pronounced, leading to the feeling of both organs moving together.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If you are experiencing a burning sensation in your throat or chest, it could be related to acid reflux, which can also cause palpitations. The esophagus runs close to the heart, and irritation or inflammation in this area can sometimes mimic or trigger heart-related symptoms.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Given the context of the pandemic and your initial anxiety, it’s possible that stress is exacerbating both your gastrointestinal symptoms and heart palpitations. Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms, including palpitations, and can also affect digestion, leading to bloating and irregular bowel movements.

5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Your symptoms align with IBS, a functional GI disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. IBS can be triggered or worsened by stress and anxiety, which may also contribute to your heart palpitations.

Given your current situation, it’s wise to continue with your healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. These can significantly improve both gastrointestinal and cardiovascular health.
As for seeking further medical evaluation, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation of your GI symptoms. Additionally, if you continue to experience heart palpitations, it may be beneficial to see a cardiologist to rule out any underlying heart conditions, especially since you mentioned experiencing breathlessness and discomfort.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may stem from a combination of gastrointestinal issues and anxiety, it’s essential to monitor your condition closely. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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