What Could Be Causing This Constant Pulsating Sensation?
I'm a 32-year-old woman weighing 135 kg, having lost 20 kg unintentionally. My medical history includes the following conditions: • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) • Asthma • Sleep Apnea • Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST) • Autism Currently, I am on several medications: 100 mg of Seroquel, medication for asthma, 60 mg of Duloxetine, Ozempic, Diltiazem 180 mg, and Nexium. For the past six months, I've been experiencing a rhythmic pulsation in my upper abdomen, neck, and collarbone region (not simultaneously), which resembles a heartbeat. This sensation persists until I fall asleep. Upon waking, it may not return for the first half of the day, but as hours go by, it gradually reappears and continues until I sleep again. I have consulted my physician numerous times about this issue, and he attributes it to my IST. Unfortunately, the IST medication does not alleviate the pulsating. While I do experience heart racing and palpitations due to the IST, this additional sensation feels like an entirely different issue. I've undergone various medical tests, including blood tests, ECGs, a heart monitor, ultrasounds, and X-rays, all of which have returned normal results except for a slightly elevated heart rate and palpitations associated with IST. This abnormal abdominal pulsation is driving me to the edge. I cannot tolerate it any longer. I attempted to do an elimination process by discontinuing each medication for a few days to see if it would stop the pulsations; however, none of the medications made a difference, so I have resumed taking them. Is there anyone out there who might have advice or suggestions? I am desperate for a solution and cannot continue living with this discomfort!
Answers (1)
9/7/2025, 4:01:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the discomfort you've been experiencing. It sounds challenging to deal with symptoms that have persisted despite various tests and treatments. Here's a summary of key points along with some actionable steps you can take.
Main Points
- The rhythmic pulsating sensation you're experiencing could be related to your existing conditions, particularly Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST), but it could also stem from other factors, including muscle spasms or vascular issues.
- Since your medical tests have returned normal, it’s important to consider non-medication management strategies alongside your current care.
Explanation
The pulsating sensation in your upper abdomen, neck, and collarbone area, especially given the context of your health history, may be linked to several factors. IST can indeed cause heart-related symptoms, but the sensation might also relate to the muscles, nerves, or even vascular structures in your upper body. Stress, anxiety, and muscle tension could accentuate this experience, especially given the history of PCOS and sleep apnea, which can contribute to overall stress on the body.
Next Steps
-
Monitor Triggers: Keep a detailed diary of when the pulsations occur. Note the time of day, activities you were engaged in prior, and any symptoms accompanying it. This can help identify patterns or triggers.
-
Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate stress-reduction strategies such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or yoga. These can help alleviate symptoms related to stress and muscle tension.
-
Posture and Muscle Care: Consider evaluating your posture and potentially getting guidance on ergonomic settings for work or rest, as this can affect both muscle tension and discomfort in your upper body.
-
Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're well-hydrated, as dehydration can lead to muscle spasms or tension. Given your weight loss and history of PCOS, consider consulting a nutritionist to ensure your diet supports your overall well-being while managing these unique health conditions.
-
Physical Activity: If your asthma and sleep apnea allow, engage in regular light physical activity. Exercise can enhance circulation and may help alleviate symptoms over time.
-
Follow Up on Medical Review: Since your doctor has mentioned IST as a cause, consider asking for a referral to a specialist if you feel comfortable. A cardiologist or a neurologist might provide further insights. Additionally, a consultation with a gastroenterologist could help rule out any gastrointestinal causes for your pulsating sensation.
-
Emotional Support: Talk to a mental health professional if feelings of anxiety or frustration are overwhelming. They can provide coping strategies specifically tailored to women with chronic health issues.
It's essential to keep advocating for yourself and seeking answers. Please know that you are not alone in this experience, and there are professionals who can continue to help you explore and manage your symptoms effectively. Keep track of any new developments, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further support.
Related Questions
Managing Early Appendicitis: Antibiotics vs. Surgery
I’m a 21-year-old who recently had a CT scan revealing mild inflammation in my appendix and lymph nodes. My doctor informed me that surgery might not be necessary if the antibiotics effectively alleviate my discomfort by tomorrow. However, I can’t shake my fears about a potential recurrence of the inflammation. The thought of going through a post-surgery recovery terrifies me, so I really want to steer clear of that option. Has anyone opted for antibiotics rather than surgical intervention? What was your experience like?
Severe Abdominal Discomfort
An 18-year-old male, with no history of smoking or current medications, finds himself at home, surrounded by his sleeping family. He stands approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs around 220 pounds. Lately, he has been experiencing persistent discomfort in the lower left side of his abdomen. This sensation has intensified recently, culminating in a bout of vomiting, which was notably different this time, presenting more solid material rather than the usual liquid with some fragments. The level of pain has escalated significantly, leaving him uncertain about seeking medical assistance at this moment. What steps should he take?
Concerns Over My Partner's Persistent Pain and Resistance to Seek Medical Help
I’m facing a worrying situation with my partner, a 40-year-old man who stands 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 19 stone. Here's a brief overview of his medical background: Twenty years ago, he experienced two instances of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his left shoulder. Following the second incident, doctors discovered an abnormal growth of a rib that was pressing against a vein, which was the cause of those DVTs. More recently, he dealt with a blood clot in his calf last year. Fortunately, that was successfully treated, and he returned to his normal health. Although he was advised to continue taking apixaban for the long term, he has, unfortunately, chosen not to follow through with this guidance. He also has a history of elevated blood pressure. For the past couple of days, he has been experiencing two concerning symptoms that emerged simultaneously: a persistent cough with no accompanying cold or flu signs, and a severe pain located on the right side of his torso. He describes this discomfort as being mostly in his stomach yet extending slightly to his back. I would pinpoint the troubled area as the lower part of his ribs along the side of his body. It's unusual for him to express discomfort or complain about his health, so his recent grievances signal to me that the pain is likely quite significant. Despite my repeated suggestions for him to visit a doctor, he insists that he may have simply pulled a muscle. To manage the pain, he's been applying an ibuprofen cream (voltarol) and taking naproxen, but neither seems to provide relief. What might be the underlying issue here? I hope that some medical professionals who see this post can offer their insights, which might persuade him to consider making a doctor’s appointment. I’m open to providing any additional information you might require for a more informed perspective. Thank you for your help!
Struggling with Bleeding and Pain Since Christmas
I'm a 27-year-old woman from the UK, and I've reached a point of exasperation. I'm reaching out because I hope someone can provide insight or guidance on what I should discuss with my doctors. Please excuse any grammar or spelling errors as I have dyslexia. I've been diagnosed with endometriosis and underwent surgery in 2022 for confirmation of that diagnosis. On December 15th, I had my birth control implant removed after nearly two years. During that period, I experienced severe menstrual cramps and PMS. My GP started me on Drospirenone 3mg and Estetrol 14.2mg COCP in October to alleviate these symptoms and suppress my periods, which provided some relief. Prior to this situation, I occasionally dealt with flare-ups that typically lasted a few days or up to a week. To help manage the discomfort, I have been prescribed Duloxetine at a dosage of 90mg. I had an ultrasound earlier this summer, and the results came back normal. Currently, I am awaiting an MRI. Last year, my smear test results were also clear. After the removal of my implant in December, I began bleeding on Christmas Eve. Initially, I could manage with just a panty liner, but over the next few weeks, the bleeding intensified, requiring the use of pads due to increased blood flow and blood clots. Given my history with endometriosis, pain isn't unfamiliar to me; my average pain level is around a 4, but it has recently escalated to 7 or 8. In the past couple of weeks, the discomfort has worsened. My job demands physical activity, and bending over now causes pain in my back and legs. Additionally, I experience discomfort when my bladder fills, and urination is painful, although it doesn't feel like a urinary tract infection. I've also been waking up at night to use the restroom. My doctor performed a urine dip test that showed no signs of infection, though there was blood in my urine, which he indicated was to be expected. Recently, my GP prescribed Tranexamic acid 500mg and Mefenamic acid 500mg, which helped with the blood clots, but I'm still experiencing bleeding and significant pain. I've been diligent about taking my medication, treating it like a strict regimen. I returned to the GP, who referred me for another ultrasound and advised me to go to A&E if the pain worsens. I've been resting as much as possible while still trying to maintain some level of activity, but it hasn't provided much relief. Any assistance or advice would be immensely appreciated! Thank you!
Normal MRI and EMG Reveal Nerve Slowdown
Greetings, I’m a 23-year-old female seeking guidance about some health issues I’ve been experiencing. Recently, I've noticed weakness in both my hand and arm, particularly in my dominant hand where grip strength has been notably diminished. After undergoing an EMG, the results indicated that my nerves are exhibiting a slowdown. However, my MRI results were unremarkable. To address some swelling I experienced, I was prescribed a course of steroids (4mg for a few months), which alleviated some of the issues, yet I still experience residual swelling in my hand. Often, my hand feels cold, and I notice a popping sensation when I move my fingers. Despite these sensations, I do not have any numbness or tingling, and the swelling appears sporadic. The pain I endure is quite severe, described as a hammering sensation throughout my hand. On occasion, I take ibuprofen (600mg) for relief, but it proves to be somewhat ineffective. My wrist itself seems fine, but my orthopedic specialist is considering a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), even though my symptoms don’t align with typical CTS indicators. I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights you may offer!