Can low hemoglobin levels cause palpitations?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing heart palpitations on and off all morning on the right-hand side of my chest, and my lower left arm and hand are sore. I am a 33-year-old female in overall good health, but I was told I had a heart murmur about a year and a half ago, and I am on Sprintec birth control. Should I be worried about this?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It does not seem like a matter of concern. However, since you mentioned having a murmur, you should get an echocardiogram to investigate the cause. Have you ever had your hemoglobin checked? Low hemoglobin can lead to palpitations, and it can also occur with a valve problem, as you mentioned regarding the murmur. Additionally, extra beats, which are usually benign, can cause this. Therefore, it does not appear to be an emergency. However, you should have an evaluation that includes an ECG (electrocardiogram), echocardiogram, and hemoglobin test.

I hope this helps, and feel free to reach out if you have any doubts or more information to share.