Can
acid reflux cause palpitations?
Palpitations
are a distressing awareness of the heart beating
rapidly or irregularly. They may be caused by
stress, fatigue, or overuse of alcohol or
stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine, illegal
street drugs, strenuous exercise, certain
medications, and emotions such as stress, fear, or
panic. Palpitations are mostly uncomfortable and
frightening and may or may not be related to an
abnormal heart rate and are usually not a serious
problem. But, if they persist or occur with
syncope, near syncope, or lightheadedness, they
may be a sign of a heart problem.
Although
acid reflux does not
cause palpitations directly, related
chest pain may cause the patient to feel very
anxious, and this may cause palpitations. Acid
reflux can also cause chest pain because the acid
irritates the esophagus and this can lead to
abnormal muscle contractions. This chest pain may
feel very similar to the pain experienced in
angina or coronary heart disease. This may lead to
anxiety and palpitations.
In
patients who may be at risk for cardiac disease,
it is very important to rule out angina before
assuming that acid reflux is responsible for the
palpitations. Even pain that feels like typical
heartburn may be a sign of cardiac disease in such
patients, so a careful history and medical
evaluation is required.
When
it comes to the treatment of palpitations and
heartburn, the main aim is to attack the heartburn
itself because then the palpitations that have
developed due to heartburn will be cured as well.
Try cutting back on caffeine to see if it is
causing the problem. Smoking is a cause for
palpitations, and so is alcohol. Some
over-the-counter decongestant and cough
medications also cause palpitations. Eat at
regular intervals (low blood sugar can cause
palpitations) and drink plenty of water (fluids).
Try to get enough sleep. Stress relief through
yoga, biofeedback, tai-chi, guided imagery, or
meditation will also help calm frayed nerves and
reduce acid reflux as well as palpitations.
Prescription
medication can be used for a short period of time
and can be successful at relieving heartburn.
There are also many natural remedies for heartburn
that can be used such as probiotics, herbs like
ginger, aloe vera, etc. Certain foods that trigger
heartburn, especially, a lot of hot and spicy
foods, fatty, deep fried foods should also be
avoided and dairy and alcohol consumption should
be limited. Losing weight if you are overweight is
also helpful. Using a wedge pillow or raising the
head of the bed by 6 to 9 inches or simple things
such as avoiding tight clothes and tight belts
help treat acid reflux.
Make sure your blood pressure and cholesterol are
well controlled to avoid future heart problems. To
help your doctor diagnose your condition, keep
track of your heart palpitations. Note when they
happen, how long they last, and if they are
associated with any activity or food.
For
long term relief from acid reflux as well as
palpitations, a holistic approach is the best
solution. Making lifestyle changes and
incorporating them into daily living can improve
overall health safely and
effectively.
