Skipping beats

I have had anorexia for over seven years and never had a problem with my heart, recently however I have noticed that it is skipping beats quite frequently. when this happens i get short of breath too- I'm scared to talk to my doctor. should I be worried? Thank you

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Dear Kate,
You are putting yourself in grave danger by not eating properly. There are many risks to the heart of anorexia including having a heart attack.  This is what Karen Carpenter died of although she was very young.  You have already taken the first step in acknowledging you have an eating disorder.  You need to take the next step and get intensive help in dealing with this problem.  There is help.  Please don't delay.  I wish you God's blessings in your journey towards wholeness.

[stevebu]

I am not a doctor, but starving the body of needed vitamins and nutrients could cause disturbances with your heart including dangerous arrhythmias.  I would ask my doctor for a heart monitor so your episodes can be caught on tape.  It might not be anything serious, but with your history of anorexia I would have it checked out for sure.  Good luck to you Kate.

[stevebu]

Kate, please go get checked out ASAP.  Your body may be depleted of the nutrients that are needed to sustain life.  You can still recover, but you need to be honest with your doctor today.  Good luck.