How to effectively manage palpitations?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 25 years old and have been experiencing palpitations for the past three months. There is no anemia, and my thyroid function test (TFT) is normal. Both MRIs of the abdomen and chest are normal. The echocardiogram shows an atherosclerotic aortic valve with an ejection fraction of 60 percent. The Holter monitor recorded a minimum heart rate of 120 bpm and a maximum heart rate of 190 bpm. I sometimes experience fatigue, tremors, and difficulty breathing. The chest pain is occasionally aching, and I experience pins and needles more often. I have seronegative arthritis. I have previously had dengue, cerebral malaria, and typhoid. I am currently taking Propranolol 40 mg twice daily for one month, but I have since stopped. I was also on Clonazepam 0.5 mg twice daily for two months, but it did not help.

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have thoroughly reviewed your case and fully understand your genuine concerns. First of all, you have a high BMI (body mass index). I recommend trying to reduce your weight, as it is high for your age and height. An ejection fraction of 60 percent indicates that you have aortic stenosis due to a sclerosed aortic valve. In this regard, we need to consider that the increased back pressure on the left ventricle with each heartbeat is causing the ventricular walls and interventricular septum to become thicker and more dilated. This impaired output is causing your heart to beat faster and is also reducing cardiac output.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.