OpenHealth Q&A

It's understandable to be concerned about heart palpitations and chest discomfort, especially following a significant event like a pulmonary embolism (PE). While these symptoms can be alarming, it's important to approach them with a clear view of your health status. Given your recent tests and the reassurance from your physician, here’s a breakdown of your situation and some actionable steps.

Main Points:

1. Your current symptoms of heart palpitations and chest discomfort may not indicate a serious problem, especially since tests have ruled out critical issues.
2. It's wise to continue with the recommended monitoring (like the Holter monitor) to gain more insight into your heart's rhythm.
3. Consulting a cardiologist could provide you with additional reassurance and evaluation, especially since you're experiencing ongoing symptoms.

Explanation:

Heart palpitations can occur for various reasons, including your body adjusting to the aftermath of a PE, stress responses from your recent health events, or benign conditions like extrasystoles (extra heartbeats), which were noted in your ECG. Since your heart health has been assessed, and tests haven’t identified new problems, it’s likely that your symptoms are more related to your recovery process and possibly benign in nature.

Next Steps:

1. Complete the Holter Monitor Test: This is crucial as it will provide detailed information about your heart's rhythm over 24 hours. Make sure to follow through with this test, as it might pinpoint the cause of your palpitations.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of your palpitations, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities (for example, physical exertion or stress). This diary can provide valuable information for your doctors.

3. Consult a Cardiologist: If your symptoms persist or worsen after completing the Holter test, scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist may be beneficial. They can provide specialized insights and possibly conduct further evaluations if needed.

4. Manage Stress and Rest: Given that your symptoms can disrupt your sleep, focus on relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga before bed to help alleviate anxiety and promote quality sleep.

5. Follow-up on Symptoms: If you encounter new symptoms, such as increased pain, shortness of breath, or if palpitations become more frequent, seek medical attention promptly to ensure a thorough evaluation.

Your experience and feelings are valid, and taking proactive actions will help you feel more in control. Don't hesitate to reach out with any further questions or concerns!