Unusual Heart Sensation
I’m an 18-year-old, weighing 50 kilograms and standing at 170 centimeters (and yes, I’m aware that I’m quite slender). For the past couple of years, I’ve developed a habit of smoking about half a pack of cigarettes each day. So, the other day I was lying on my left side, relaxing, when I stumbled upon an unusual sensation. It felt as though my heart was pulsating so intensely that it was almost outside my body. Out of curiosity, I pressed a bit on the area and was instantly hit with a rush; my head started to tingle, my vision momentarily blurred, and it felt as though my heart dropped. It was as if my entire system had malfunctioned. Just for context, I’ve experienced something similar before after a ketamine overdose, and it persisted for about a month afterward, occurring occasionally while trying to sleep or during random moments in bed. This current episode has me quite anxious, especially since it hasn’t happened in a while, but this time felt particularly alarming.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 4:30:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious when experiencing unusual sensations related to your heart, especially considering your past experiences. The intense pulsation you described and the accompanying symptoms could be related to several factors, including anxiety, physiological responses, or the impact of smoking and previous substance use. Here’s a breakdown of what you should know and what steps to take:
Main Points
- Possible Causes: The sensations you felt could stem from anxiety, smoking habits, or changes in heart rhythm. These can be influenced by stress, lifestyle, or substance effects.
- Symptoms to Monitor: Focus on identifying any patterns in your symptoms and being aware of accompanying factors, such as anxiety levels or physical habits that might trigger these sensations.
Explanation
When lying on your side, you may have felt your heartbeats more prominently, especially if you're tense or anxious. Pressing on your chest could stimulate a vagus nerve response, leading to dizzy feelings or changes in vision, which are not uncommon. Smoking affects cardiovascular health, and using substances like ketamine can have aftereffects that impact both mood and physiological responses.
Next Steps
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Focus on Lifestyle Changes:
- Reduce or Quit Smoking: Consider gradual reduction or seeking help through counseling or cessation programs. This will benefit your overall health and potentially alleviate unusual sensations.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in deep-breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help reduce anxiety and manage stress.
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Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a journal noting when these sensations occur, their duration, any triggers (e.g., stress, caffeine, physical position), and any other symptoms. This can help identify patterns and will be useful if you consult a healthcare professional in the future.
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Stay Hydrated and Eat Well:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Staying hydrated is also important for your cardiovascular health.
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Stay Mindful of Physical Health:
- Ensure you get regular, moderate exercise, which can improve heart health and reduce anxiety over time.
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Seek Support:
- If anxiety or these sensations persist, consider talking to a mental health professional. They can offer strategies to manage anxiety, explore your substance use, and its impact on your health.
Final Note
Take these steps gradually, and be patient with your progress. It’s great to be proactive in addressing your health. Remember: If you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or prolonged dizziness, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. I'm here to help if you have more questions or need further guidance!
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