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What Causes Heart Palpitations?

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Posted on Tue, 5 Jul 2016
Question: I had a virus which I believe may have been rubeola because I developed a rash on my arms and legs after the fever dropped. The fever was not super-high...about 100, but I was exhausted while I was sick. This morning, I had my first incident of heart palpitations..irregular heartbeat. I went to the doctor but was unable to get an appointment and they were too busy to fit me in. I will likely try to go tomorrow, but would like to hear what the possibilities are or whether I should be pursuing any home treatment. No other symptoms at the moment.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (32 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
a visit to the ER is recommended

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

irregular heartbeat can be caused by serious or less serious disorders. Atrial fibrillation for example is a serious arrhythmia because it may cause strokes or peripheral embolization. Any abnormality in heart rhythm should be investigated promptly. Sometimes infections may spread to the heart and cause myocarditis. Myocarditis may present with various symptoms. Symptoms of arrhythmia is one of its potential presentations. Thankfully myocarditis is a rare complication.

I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.

Kind Regards!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (21 minutes later)
Thank you for the information you provided. I am not having continued irregular heartbeat, but two very small episodes. I will see my doctor about it tomorrow and understand the potential risks. Is there any harm in taking Advil?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (15 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
not any problems related to the infection or the heartbeat

Detailed Answer:
You're welcome!

Some arrhythmias may be paroxysmal (transient and recurring). Atrial fibrillation is one of them (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation). Advil is a NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and shares the same side effects with every NSAID. Gastric irritation (peptic ulcer and its complications), renal damage (acute renal failure), worsening of hypertension, allergies, liver injury, etc. If you're otherwise healthy then proper use of advil should not pose any problems. Just make sure you take it with food and drink enough water throughout the day.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 3817 Questions

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What Causes Heart Palpitations?

Brief Answer: a visit to the ER is recommended Detailed Answer: Hello, irregular heartbeat can be caused by serious or less serious disorders. Atrial fibrillation for example is a serious arrhythmia because it may cause strokes or peripheral embolization. Any abnormality in heart rhythm should be investigated promptly. Sometimes infections may spread to the heart and cause myocarditis. Myocarditis may present with various symptoms. Symptoms of arrhythmia is one of its potential presentations. Thankfully myocarditis is a rare complication. I hope you find my comments helpful! You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information. Kind Regards!