1st Time Palpitations

Posted By Jim on November 22, 1998 at 18:08:46:







I'm 40 and at the start of the year I began BP medication. My pressure was usually around 135/90. My doctor put me on Atenolol,
but after 8 months I was tired of being tired, falling asleep at 7pm etc. so last month we switched to Lotensin 10mg. Earlier
this week I went for a check up, my BP was 130/82 and we decided to stay with this. But over the last
few days I've noticed that when I bend down or crouch dpwn, when I first stand up I get slightly light-headed and can "feel" my
heartbeat in my ears. This only lasts a few seconds. About 2 hours ago, just after eating, I started to feel my heart pounding. Through
a medical program I have, it sounds like palpitations...which in turn led me here. I have no pains, I've read my beat at 80-90 per minute
and just feel slightly lightheaded and weak. Now, I had very little sleep last night and worked 9 hours today ( a desk job ) and did drink almost
a whole pot of coffee earlier today.  
At first I was pretty nervous but reading the info here I feel a bit better. I guess my question is, how long do palpitations generally last?
I mean, I've felt mine for over an hour now....I'm sure my anxiety is playing a part too... Can a heavy meal contribute?  I didn't seem to
get them until after eating...Or am I just over tired and over caffeinated?  I'm pretty convinced I'm not now dying ( although earlier I did feed
my dog already, in case I had to call an ambulance ).  OK, these aren't fun, I feel I've joined a new club or something  :)
Thanks for your help!