Palpitations: Causes and Concerns for Your Heart Health

Feeling of arrhythmia?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a recent experience I've had with palpitations.
It happened two days ago around 11 PM when I suddenly felt some chest pain and my heart was racing.
I could clearly feel my heartbeat.
At that time, I had just finished playing a game, and I was a bit startled, so I quickly went to bed.
However, as I was about to fall asleep, my previously steady heartbeat became rapid again, and it felt like palpitations.
I checked my pulse and it seemed to be a bit fast.
Eventually, I managed to fall asleep.

When I woke up in the morning, I looked up information and it seemed similar to palpitations and insomnia, but I was still a bit worried.
Sometimes, I unconsciously reach for my chest, feeling like another episode might occur, which feels like autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
Due to the hot weather, I'm not sure if I experienced night sweats, and I didn't feel dizzy or lightheaded.
However, because I was concerned about my heart rhythm, I forced myself to sleep on my back instead of my usual left side, which resulted in neck pain in the morning.
I read online that neck pain could also indicate a problem, so I am a bit worried about that too.
As for my medical history, I do not have any family history of hereditary diseases, and I rarely experience palpitations; the last time was last year, but that instance did not involve palpitations or insomnia, just simple insomnia.
I haven't gone to the hospital for a check-up yet because I'm not sure if it's just my excessive worrying.
Additionally, I've been staying up late, usually going to bed between midnight and 3 AM, and I haven't been exercising at all.
My weight is around 60 kilograms.
One more thing, the day before this issue occurred, I ate an old-fashioned popsicle and got a splinter, but I noticed it and spat it out.
After that, my throat started to hurt, which made me quite anxious, thinking I might have a splinter stuck, and my heart raced.
I became cautious even when drinking water, and then the next evening, I experienced the palpitations.
I'm not sure if there's a connection, but I tend to be a nervous person, combined with staying up late, not exercising, and the hot weather with frequent air conditioning (set at 29 degrees Celsius).
I would like to ask the doctor if this could be due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, or if it's simply excessive worrying? Or could it be caused by staying up late and frequently being in air-conditioned rooms? I'm not sure if my issue falls within your area of expertise, but I would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/14

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, you are absolutely right.
Excessive worry, panic, staying up late, insomnia, and frequently being in air-conditioned rooms can lead to autonomic nervous system disorders and palpitations.
It's best to first regulate your daily routine and incorporate some exercise.
Just observe your condition; there’s no need to worry.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/07/14

More Info

Palpitations can be a concerning symptom, and understanding their causes and implications for heart health is essential. Based on your description, it seems you experienced episodes of rapid heartbeat and discomfort in your chest, which can be alarming. However, it's important to note that palpitations are often benign, especially in younger individuals without a significant history of heart disease.

Causes of Palpitations
1. Anxiety and Stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger palpitations. The body's fight-or-flight response can lead to an increase in adrenaline, which can cause your heart to race. Given your mention of feeling anxious and having a stressful lifestyle, this could be a significant factor.

2. Lifestyle Factors: Lack of exercise, irregular sleep patterns, and high caffeine intake can contribute to palpitations. You mentioned staying up late and not exercising, which can disrupt your body's natural rhythms and lead to symptoms like palpitations.

3. Autonomic Nervous System Imbalance: The autonomic nervous system regulates heart rate and can become dysregulated due to stress, lack of sleep, or other factors. This dysregulation can lead to sensations of palpitations or irregular heartbeats.

4. Physical Factors: Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or even recent illnesses can lead to palpitations. Your mention of a sore throat after eating something sharp could have caused temporary irritation, leading to anxiety about your health, which in turn could exacerbate palpitations.

5. Environmental Factors: Heat and humidity can also affect heart rate. If you are frequently in air-conditioned environments, your body may react differently to temperature changes, potentially leading to discomfort or palpitations.

When to Seek Medical Attention
While many cases of palpitations are benign, certain symptoms warrant further evaluation:
- Persistent or worsening palpitations: If your palpitations become more frequent or severe, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider.

- Associated symptoms: If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention.

- Family history: If there is a family history of heart disease or arrhythmias, it’s advisable to discuss this with your doctor.

Recommendations
1. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Regular Exercise: Incorporating physical activity into your routine can help regulate your heart rate and reduce anxiety.

- Sleep Hygiene: Establish a regular sleep schedule to improve your overall well-being and reduce stress.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

2. Stress Management: Consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage anxiety and stress levels.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your palpitations, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities or feelings. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or you have concerns about your heart health, it’s wise to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while palpitations can be concerning, they are often linked to lifestyle factors, anxiety, or temporary physiological changes. By addressing these factors and monitoring your symptoms, you can better manage your heart health. If you have ongoing concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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