uncomfortable heartbeat with frequent palpitations

[JMP78]

For several years I have been experiencing episodes of extreme discomfort that seem to be centered around my heart (after numerous specialists, anxiety has been ruled out as a contributing factor to these episodes).  These episodes can last from about 24-72 hours straight.  During these episodes, my heartbeat is very uncomfortable.  It beats more forcefully, making it noticable, and I experience more frequent palpitations during these attacks.  In between palpitations, I feel generally lousy...lightheaded, mild headache, sluggish and feel as though there is a "strain" in my chest area.  Sometimes, I even feel a horseness in my throat and esophagus.  I have had numerous echocardiograms, including at the Mayo clinc, as well as EKG's and heart monitors which have all reported that I have a perfectly structurally healthy heart with benign palpitations.  I have also undergone some autonmoic testing which yeilded a diagnosis of mild POTS.  In addition, I have been diagnosed with mast-cell activation disorder.  These episodes, however, do not seem to correlate to the symptoms of these disorders.  I have had EKG's done during these episodes, therefore, my symptoms have been recorded and observed while they were occuring.  My question is, could this still be an issue originating in my heart?  It is hard for me to believe that these episodes are not a problem with my heart since my heartbeat feels like the center of the discomfort during these episodes.  I have never had an EP study and wonder if this type of study would yield results or find something that did not show up on my EKG's.  Is it possible for my heart to be doing something abnormal, that would not be seen on an EKG even while symptomatic...are EKG's capable of detecting all possible abnormalities if they are done while a patient is symptomatic.  I am not sure if I should pursue seeing another doctor or specialist and wonder if there is some strange thing that my heart is doing, that only a more invasive approach could detect?  I just want relief of these symptoms.  Thank you for your time in answering my questions.

[Jjvwgti]

It’s stress and anxiety... the fact that you posted on this site to complete strangers about your issues is an indication of an unhealthy obsession about your health. I would accept that you are alive, and you have done all you can to confirm your heart is ok. Find a therapist that can help you reconcile your fears and worries.

[Anthonycordina]

I have been having these exact same symptoms and i am absolutely terrified. It all started 6 months ago with a full blown panic attack, I havnt had another one quite so intense but i have uncomfortable feelings on a daily basis. Everything from rapid heart rate to a skipping feeling which can sometimes take the wind out of me. I also feel like a hypochondriac when I try to explain this to people but the feelings are undeniable. I am really getting worried. I recently had a ECG and my doctor says I just need to relax. There is no major cause of stress in my life at the moment apart from these episodes, its as if the problem is causing itself. I also have a history of heart problems in my family which is concerning but im only 23, I thought i had some more time before i had to worry about it. triggers range from exercise to over eating. Ive seen two doctors and they both say that im fine but i feel like im losing my mind, i dont want to live with this for the rest of my life. whats going on?. Id love to hear if you reach a conclusion.

[1968_In_PDX]

I have been experiencing very similar symptoms. People act like I'm a hypochondriac or something and it really is concerning to me. I have been told it's everything from G.E.R.D. to Anxiety too. I really feel it in the area around my heart and it sometimes pulsates the ache with my heart beat. Its a little scary at times. I also get a dull throbbing pain in my temples and head with the chest ache. I'd love to know how to alleviate this condition! The ekgs and tests have all said my heart is healthy just like yours... I know something is wrong,

[oceanminded]

I feel your pain. I too am having constant PAC's that are really uncomfortable. My chest feels tight and my throat is really bothering me. When my Palps go away the chest tightness and throat sensations also disappear. I've also had all the tests done which show benign PAC's. If my palps continue I may go to an electrophysiologist for may tests and maybe try some meds. Good luck!

[Jerry_NJ]

Tough to give help given you've had complete medical check-out and no answers. You didn't mention stress test, or nuclear stress test.  Did I overlook?  These tests are, as I understand it, mainly to check that the heart is getting blood when under the stress of exercise.  This sometimes leads to the need for a catheter examination of the heart, slightly invasive, here I mean only a small hole is made, usually in the groin, to gain access to a main vein for the catheter... but I ramble on something that may not be needed.  

My response will also put your post at the top of the list, giving you a longer run on page one to find some one who has some related experience they can share.