Head or Heart problem ?

by Lukas
(London)

Hi! I'm a 28 years old male, and since last year I'm having a heart problem ( I think...).It started when I was on a diet .(In 3 months I've lost 15kg.From 85 to 75 ) During physical exercises or sometimes without any reason my heart suddenly begun to race even when I wasnt tired. As quickly as it started after couple minutes the symptoms were going away. So I went to a doctor I've made some tests (ECG, Echocardiogram, blood, treadmill) and everything came up "normal". After that I didn’t have any palpitations but I was not feeling so good. Dizziness, felt like my blood pressure was jumping up (for example. when crouching) and down and heavy, slow beat of my heart. Now I'm having tiny, needle like chest pains from each side and very cold hands, feet which I've never had before. And on top off that for last couple days most of the time I feel like something heavy pressing on my chest, causing difficulties with breathing properly.
I would be very grateful for any help or advice on this problem. Luka

Advice:

Luka, you have clearly been investigated well. I suspect at the young age of 28 years, this is likely to be stress related. The only other condition, which is pretty rare, is a tumour called a phaeochromocytoma. This tumour releases adrenaline type substances which can cause similar symptoms to those you describe. It can be tested for with a urine test looking for catecholamines. You might like to discuss this with your doctor.




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