Are Frequent Heart Palpitations A Cause For Concern?

Posted on Tue, 15 Mar 2016

Question: I am male 42 years old and over weight (in the process of loosing weight) I have lost about 90 lbs in the last 8 months. I have noticed this off and on for a couple years, I sometimes feel like my heart is shaking or palpitating. I have noticed the same feeling before after way to much caffeine.

I have had several EKG's and all have been normal over the past couple years. Should I be concerned with this? It sometimes does it all day. I am on a stimulant for ADD although I take it in the mornings and it has worn off by mid afternoon.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for asking!
I read your query and understood your concerns.

Your symptoms most likely are related to ADD and it's treatment side effects. As long as your Ecg is normal during these episodes you shouldn't worry.

However, if you were my patient I would recommend doing the following examinations for a better evaluation of your case:
- blood work including thyroid hormones
- Cardiac echo
- Holter monitoring
- Stress test

Wish you health!
Dr. Shehu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Benard Shehu (6 minutes later)

Had this happen even before I was on any medication for ADD. It's doing it now Heart Rate is 84 BPM Blood Pressure 121 / 76. I very rarely take Clonzepam but I took one this evening to see if it was induced by anxiety.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (15 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice...

Detailed Answer:
My opinion is that these symptoms are related to psychological problems and you should discuss with your psychologist about taking clonazepam on a regular basis.

This will help to relieve your symptoms.
Wish you health!
Dr. Shehu

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar