Extra Heartbeats – Please Help!?

Question by BarbieQ: Extra heartbeats – Please help!?
I’ve been to a cardio last week and they did a heart ultrasound, thyroid check, bloodwork, ecg and 24hr monitor.
Everything was fine, only the holter showed some extra beats. Well, the thing is, I felt pretty good that day. I don’t wanna know how it would looke like when I’m having a bad one.

Can I exercise? I’m scared of that now! Used to run marathons, but ever since I delivered my baby (9mths ago) I’m a physical wreck. SSRI’s are out of the question – Breast feeding.

Could these extra beats be stress related? I get them every time my anxiety comes back and then I can’t sleep for several nights cause I count every single heartbeat. It started some months ago.
Vicious cycle this is. I’m getting anxious when I want to leave the house or my car.
My doctor told me to cut back on caffeine and drink a lot of water. I’m on a super healthy diet with just water lol.
Am I the only person with these symptoms? Is it only in my head?

Best answer:

Answer by mlee
No, it’s not only in your head. It’s affecting your heart too.

Just because it’s psychological doesn’t mean it’s not real.

See a therapist who specializes in anxiety. Get your PCP to give you a referral. If he pats you on the hand, and tells you “sweetie, you don’t need to see a therapist”, or something similar, Insist.

This is affecting your life.

Have you ever explained to your doctor about the ‘vicious cycle’? Sometimes woman are “good patients” and just accept what they are told, even though the answer didn’t meet the need. That’s a common issue for woman regarding their healthcare.

You’re not alone in what you are experiencing. A baby 9 months ago alone is a huge change. Many people have stress/anxiety disorders these days…often these things are just short term. Lots of treatment options available besides just drugs. Why suffer needlessly when help is available?

Again, seek a therapist who specializes in treating Anxiety/Depression disorders. If your Doc refuses to refer you, then call United Way-(dial 211). It’s a confidential and free referral service, giving you information on community resources, such as therapist. They’ll give you a whole list.

Or check with your or your husband/partner’s employer for an Employee Assistance Program (EAP or EAR) toll-free number. The service is free and totally confidental. The employer will never be informed of your information. Some counseling can be done on the phone, but they will give you referrals as well.

You’re smart—you’ve already taken care of ruling out the physical causes…take the next step. Don’t stop short…Run the distance on this one!