Is It Normal to Experience a Heart Skip While Hiccuping?

Q: Is It Normal to Experience a Heart Skip While Hiccuping?

Hello： If you experienced a missed heartbeat, was it detected by counting your pulse or by a wearable device? Both methods measure at the surface of the body, and the heart's electrical activity may not necessarily indicate a skipped beat. <br>If you do not experience palpitation

Experiencing a skipped heartbeat during hiccups?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if it is normal to occasionally experience a skipped heartbeat during bloating and burping? I usually have issues with bloating and burping, but recently I've noticed that sometimes my heart seems to skip a beat at the moment I burp.
I'm unsure whether I should see a cardiologist or a gastroenterologist.
Could you provide some advice?

Ayi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/16

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you experienced a missed heartbeat, was it detected by counting your pulse or by a wearable device? Both methods measure at the surface of the body, and the heart's electrical activity may not necessarily indicate a skipped beat.
If you do not experience palpitations or chest discomfort, there is no need to worry too much.
If you still have concerns, you may consult a cardiologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2022/05/16

More Info

Experiencing a sensation of a skipped heartbeat, or palpitations, during hiccups or while experiencing gas can be concerning, but it is often benign. Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle, which can lead to a variety of sensations in the body, including changes in heart rhythm. When you hiccup, the sudden contraction of the diaphragm can put pressure on the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain to the abdomen and is involved in regulating heart rate. This pressure can sometimes lead to a feeling of a skipped heartbeat or an irregular heartbeat.

In your case, since you mention that you often experience bloating and hiccups, it is possible that the combination of these factors is contributing to your sensations of palpitations. The vagus nerve is sensitive to changes in pressure and can be stimulated by various factors, including gastrointestinal issues. When the stomach is distended or when gas builds up, it can press against the diaphragm and potentially affect the heart's rhythm, leading to the feeling of a skipped beat.

While occasional palpitations are common and usually harmless, it is important to pay attention to the frequency and severity of these episodes. If you find that the sensation of a skipped heartbeat occurs frequently, is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. In such cases, a visit to a cardiologist may be warranted to rule out any underlying heart conditions.

On the other hand, if your primary concern is related to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and hiccups, a consultation with a gastroenterologist may be beneficial. They can evaluate your digestive health and provide recommendations for managing symptoms like bloating, which may help reduce the frequency of hiccups and, consequently, the sensation of palpitations.

In summary, while it is not uncommon to experience a sensation of skipped heartbeats during hiccups, especially if you have underlying gastrointestinal issues, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If they persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Both cardiologists and gastroenterologists can provide valuable insights, so consider discussing your symptoms with either specialist based on your primary concerns. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and addressing any gastrointestinal issues can also contribute to overall heart health and well-being.

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