Arrhythmias

  Hi I have been getting chest "fluttering .., the sensation of a "hiccup" in my upper chest . I have no pain , no heart racing , pulse is normal , no sweats , or dizziness . I have these "flutterings ' through out the day...they disappear when I work out , and go running ...but come back when I am relaxed , they come and go. I work in a stressful enviroment , had a full carido work up done late last Summer ..all was good . I do have a high blood pressure and take cardura for it , and I am on potassium suppliments because my potassium level has been lowering over the last couple of blood tests I have had . So I am curiuous what this could be ? ...is it nerves or anxiety ? , a result of the potassium levels in my blood ?. I going to my Doctor as soon as I can ...but am very worried about this ....Thanks for the help

[is_something_wrong]

You're describing classic premature beats; PACs or PVCs. I think during my time on Medhelp I've never seen a more typical description of premature beats, and the settings that's causing them. The fact that they go away with aerobic exercise is a good sign.

I doubt your blood pressure and low potassium is to blame, I think your stress is to blame. But it's really necessary to correct any abnormalities, so keep your BP and potassium within normal limits, regardless of the premature beats.

Eat a healthy diet, stay in touch with your doctor and live a good life without too much negative stress.

[IMFletcher]

As per the last post, I agree you are feeling a classic case of PVC/PAC's...This is exactly what I have been dealing with. If you feel your pulse while encountering the fluttering sensations, you will likely notice the premature beats...your heart rate will feel inconsistent. If you read through the many threads about PVCs and PACs, you will discover that many of us suffer from the identical symptoms. I am also a runner, and find that exercise will cause the PVC/PACs to subside. However, don't be surprised if you get the odd flutter or "hard beat" now and then while running, or working out. My PVCs used to be brief uncomfortable sensations throughout the day, but I now encounter episodes where I am having many PVC/PACs per minute for several hours at a time. No pain, no shortness of breath etc. Try to reduce caffeine, and consider trying a magnesium supplement (or more natural intake), as it may help curtail the symptoms. Seeing as you have already had all the necessary cardiac tests, rest assured your PVC/PACs are totally benign, and just something you will have to learn to live with...just like the rest of us! Be well, and try not to worry - easier said then done!