Unexplained Pulsations: Should You See a Doctor?

Q: Unexplained Pulsations: Should You See a Doctor?

Hello： The letter mentions that there is a pulsation near the left rib cage close to the stomach. <br>Generally, this pulsation originates from the apex of the heart, specifically the contraction of the left ventricle. <br>If the pulsation can be observed externally through cloth

Unexplained pulsation?

I am a 59-year-old woman who has been taking Concor 5 for many years due to loose heart valves.
Recently, I have noticed a significant pulsation near my left rib cage close to the stomach, which resembles fetal movement (I am not pregnant).
The pulsation is very noticeable through my clothing and lasts about 1-2 minutes, occurring with increasing frequency.
There is no discomfort during these episodes.
I am unsure of the cause and whether I should see a doctor.
If I do, which specialty should I consult? Thank you for your help.

sherry, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/11/11

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Hello: The letter mentions that there is a pulsation near the left rib cage close to the stomach.
Generally, this pulsation originates from the apex of the heart, specifically the contraction of the left ventricle.
If the pulsation can be observed externally through clothing, it may indicate that the left ventricle is experiencing pressure or structural abnormalities (such as hypertension, mitral regurgitation, or aortic stenosis).
Even if you do not have any discomfort, it is advisable to visit a cardiologist for a detailed examination.
The physician will identify the underlying cause and explain it to you.

Reply Date: 2008/11/11

More Info

Experiencing unexplained pulsations in the body can be concerning, especially when it occurs in a specific area like the left rib cage near the stomach. Given your medical history of having a loose heart valve and your current medication regimen, it's important to approach this situation with caution.

Firstly, the sensation you're describing—pulsations that resemble fetal movements—could be attributed to several factors. These pulsations might be related to muscle contractions, particularly if they are rhythmic and localized. The intercostal muscles, which are located between the ribs, can sometimes spasm or contract, leading to noticeable movements. Additionally, if there is any underlying gastrointestinal activity, such as peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract), it could also manifest as pulsations in the abdominal area.

However, given your history of heart valve issues and the fact that you are on medication (Concor 5, which is a beta-blocker used to manage heart conditions), it is crucial to consider the cardiovascular implications of any new symptoms. While the pulsations may not be accompanied by discomfort, changes in your body that are new or increasing in frequency should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

In terms of whether you should see a doctor, the answer is yes. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that there are no underlying issues that could be related to your heart condition or other systemic factors. Since the pulsations are occurring in the rib area, you may want to start by seeing a primary care physician who can perform a thorough evaluation and determine if a referral to a specialist is necessary.

If your primary care physician deems it appropriate, they may refer you to a cardiologist, especially given your history of heart valve problems. A cardiologist can assess your heart function and determine if the pulsations are related to your cardiovascular health. Alternatively, if they suspect that the pulsations are muscular or gastrointestinal in nature, they might refer you to a gastroenterologist or a neurologist.

In summary, while the pulsations you are experiencing may not be causing discomfort, they are a new symptom that warrants medical attention, particularly in the context of your existing health conditions. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to unexplained physical symptoms, especially those that could be related to your heart health. Seeking a professional evaluation will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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