Arrhythmia and digestive problems.

  Is there any information or incidences of skipped heart beats being caused by severe
  gastrointestinal distress?  For example - severe gas causing pressure on the heart and causing
  irregular beats?  Thank you.

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

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Dear Gaye, thank you for your question.  There seems to be an association with acid reflux and other gastrointestinal disorders with palpitations, but there have been no studies to prove this point.  However, the vagus nerve does connect to the stomach and the heart and may be involved with this apparent association.  The best solution is to seek treatment for your gas pressure and hopefully your palpitations will decrease.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.  Good luck!
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