Unusual Pulsating Sensations in Chest and Head When Shifting Eyes
Greetings! I’m a 22-year-old man, standing at 192 cm and weighing 132 kg, of British descent. I have been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, autism, and OCD. My medication regimen includes 50 mg of paroxetine, 4.5 mg of cariprazine, and 15 mg of mirtazapine, which I take daily. I consume paroxetine and vitamin D (4000 IU) in the morning, while I take cariprazine and mirtazapine at night. For approximately a year, I have been experiencing a sensation similar to heart palpitations — a series of particularly strong heartbeats that resonate from my head to my chest whenever I move my eyes horizontally. This occurs even when my eyes are closed, and it tends to intensify as the day progresses. Additionally, the sensation worsens when I am unwell or lack adequate sleep, independent of any anxiety I might be feeling at the moment. This phenomenon has become a daily occurrence. Does anyone have any insight into what this might be?
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 1:51:15 PM
OpenHealth AI
The sensations you are experiencing—strong heartbeats that seem to resonate from your head to your chest when moving your eyes—are concerning and merit attention. While it's difficult to determine the exact cause without further assessment, these symptoms could potentially relate to a variety of factors, including aspects of your existing health conditions or medication side effects.
Explanation:
The connection between eye movement and the pulsating sensations you describe could arise from several possibilities:
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Medication Side Effects: Some psychiatric medications can lead to unusual sensory experiences. Both cariprazine and paroxetine may have side effects that include cardiovascular irregularities or sensations comparable to palpitations, especially when functionally interacting with other medications.
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Anxiety and Stress: Given your history of a psychotic disorder and OCD, it's important to recognize that anxiety can frequently manifest in physical ways. Stress can exacerbate physical sensations, even if you do not feel overtly anxious.
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Physical Health Factors: It's also critical to consider physical factors such as dehydration, low electrolyte levels, or fatigue that can contribute to sensations of heart palpitations and potentially related symptoms.
Specific and Prioritized Next Steps:
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Hydration and Sleep: Ensure you are getting adequate hydration throughout the day and aiming for consistent, quality sleep. Try to develop a calming pre-sleep routine to help improve sleep quality.
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Monitor Triggers: Keep a record of when these sensations occur in relation to your daily activities, stress levels, and fatigue. This can help identify any specific triggers or patterns.
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Medication Review: Consider scheduling a discussion with your healthcare provider to review your current medication regimen. It's important to share any new or worsening symptoms so they can assess the side effects and determine if any adjustments or alternative treatments may be necessary.
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Physical Exam: If these sensations cause significant discomfort or begin to interfere with your daily life, consider seeking a thorough physical evaluation. Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or changes in heart rate.
Remember that your well-being is important, and prioritizing self-care along with professional guidance can help address these sensations effectively. Feel free to reach out for support or further clarification as needed.
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