Glich,reflex or flutter in center chest.

HI, I really don't what catagory this falls under. I have a flutter,reflex or glich right in the center of my chest under my breast bone. It almost feels like it is the breastbone. The glich doesn't feel like it is deep inside. It last about a second at most. I have no pain, shortness of breath or feel faint. It happens every now and then. Some days none, other days a hundred times. Excertion doen't come into play. I have no acid indegestion or heart burn. I have no, know disease, heart problems, sugar or high blood pressure. I am very healthy. I can run 2 miles. I do have a history of anxiety and get stressed. 20 years back I even had the Panic attacks. I feel my anxiety is probly no worse than anyone else, at this point in time. I need no medication. This seems to happen even when life is very calm and relaxed. I think my heart is good. I believe it is stress related, But whats fluttering?Any ideas, Thanx

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There can be many causes for palpitations, or a "fluttering" in your chest.  It can be due to panic attacks, or can be due to a more serious heart arrhythmia.  I would ensure it isn't anything more serious before attributing it to a panic attack.

Workup can include an EKG.  You may also want to consider an event monitor (a monitor that can periodically record the heart rhythm when you feel the "flutter") which can monitor the heart rhythm.  I would also suggest blood tests for any thyroid conditions, which can precipitate arrhythmias.  An echocardiogram can also be considered to make sure there are no structural abnormalities.

If negative, then perhaps anxiety could be causing the symptoms.  You may want to discuss these options with your personal physician or a cardiology referral.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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