Customer question:
Is palpitations a symptom of a heart attack? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Spinning or stabbing pain in the heart or chest area can be a symptom of heart problems, but it is not always related to a heart attack. There are several possible causes of palpitations in the heart area, including other heart problems, muscle problems, nerve causes, or other non-cardiovascular conditions.
Possible causes of palpitations in the heart area include the following conditions:
- Muscle tension: Muscle tension in the chest or back can cause tingling or discomfort.
- Nerve causes: Nerve problems, such as neuralgia or nerve irritation, can cause chest pain.
- Anxiety or panic attacks: Stress, anxiety, or panic attacks can cause physical symptoms, including chest tightness.
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the pericardium (the covering around the heart) can cause sharp or stabbing pain in the chest.
- Lung problems: Lung problems such as pneumonia or inflammation of the pleura (pleurisy) can cause chest pain.
- Digestive problems: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other digestive disorders can cause heartburn.
If you experience pounding in the heart or chest area, it is recommended that you consult a doctor. Suppose symptoms are intense, spread to other body parts, or are accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating. In that case, you must seek emergency medical attention. Only a professional evaluation can determine the cause and determine the appropriate treatment.
Interesting reading: Heartaches
Interesting reading: Pains in the heart area
