Is Caffeine Causing My Heart Rhythm Issues? the Connection

Suspected caffeine-induced arrhythmia?

Hello Doctor, I have mild mitral valve regurgitation.
When I feel uncomfortable, I take half a dose of antiarrhythmic medication to relieve the symptoms.
I enjoy drinking coffee and try to limit my caffeine intake to 150-200 mg per day.
In the past, drinking coffee sometimes caused discomfort, but other times it did not.
Since I love coffee, it's hard to resist.
I've been drinking it for several months, and recently I've started to feel a sensation of something stuck in my throat, along with belching and bloating.
After some time, the bloating has improved, and I initially thought it was due to gastroesophageal reflux.
I feel like there’s gas pressing against my throat that I need to burp out.

Last night, I woke up in the middle of the night feeling like it was related to my heart, almost like abnormal electrical discharges from my heart, accompanied by tinnitus in my left ear and a slight stabbing pain in my heart.
At that moment, it felt like my throat was being constricted, which was very uncomfortable.
After taking the antiarrhythmic medication, the symptoms eased, and the constricted feeling diminished.
However, in the morning, I still felt like something was stuck in my throat.
Eating is normal, but sometimes drinking water causes a bit of bloating, which resolves quickly.

The sensation of chest tightness related to my heart is not frequent, but the feeling of a foreign body in my throat comes and goes.
I suspect it might be caused by coffee, as the sensation worsens when I drink it, and I often feel nauseous.
After not drinking coffee for 3-5 days, the symptoms improve, but during these past few days without coffee, my heart has started to feel uncomfortable, and I occasionally experience sudden pain in certain areas of my arms and legs that resolves quickly.
This is more noticeable at night while sleeping.
Last night, I was startled awake by the constricted feeling in my throat.

Doctor, what do you think is happening with my heart? I apologize for the lengthy description of my symptoms, which have been ongoing for over two weeks.

Xiao Miao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/30

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology

Mild mitral valve prolapse does not cause these symptoms.
Given your young age and lack of chronic diseases, your risk of heart disease is low.
Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages.
It is recommended to adjust your lifestyle and engage in regular exercise.
However, if symptoms persist, it is still advisable to visit a hospital for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/03/30

More Info

Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that can affect various bodily functions, including heart rhythm. Given your history of mild mitral regurgitation and your experience with heart rhythm issues, it is understandable that you are concerned about the potential impact of caffeine on your heart health.
Caffeine works primarily by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which can lead to increased alertness and energy. However, it also has effects on the cardiovascular system. In moderate amounts, caffeine is generally considered safe for most people, but it can cause palpitations, increased heart rate, and even arrhythmias in sensitive individuals or those with pre-existing heart conditions.
Your symptoms, including the sensation of something stuck in your throat, belching, and gastrointestinal discomfort, could be related to several factors. Caffeine can increase stomach acid production, which may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or exacerbate existing reflux issues. This could explain the feeling of a lump in your throat and the discomfort you experience after consuming coffee.
The heart-related symptoms you describe, such as the sensation of abnormal heartbeats or "irregular electrical discharges," could be linked to your caffeine intake, especially if you notice a correlation between coffee consumption and these symptoms. The left ear ringing and the chest discomfort you experience at night may also be exacerbated by caffeine, as it can lead to increased anxiety and restlessness, which in turn can heighten your awareness of bodily sensations, including those related to your heart.

It's important to note that while caffeine can contribute to heart rhythm issues, it is not the sole cause. Other factors, such as anxiety, stress, and underlying heart conditions, can also play significant roles. Given that you have a history of mild mitral regurgitation, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you find that reducing or eliminating caffeine leads to an improvement in your symptoms, it may be beneficial to limit your intake further or consider switching to decaffeinated options.

In terms of your heart health, it is advisable to maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, especially since you have experienced symptoms like chest pain and palpitations. Your doctor may recommend further evaluation, such as an echocardiogram or a Holter monitor, to assess your heart's rhythm and function more thoroughly.
Additionally, managing stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can also help alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing. If you continue to have concerns about your heart rhythm or if your symptoms worsen, it may be necessary to consult a cardiologist for a more comprehensive evaluation.

In conclusion, while caffeine may be contributing to your heart rhythm issues, it is essential to consider the broader context of your health. Monitoring your symptoms, adjusting your caffeine intake, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider will be key to managing your condition effectively.

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