#asktheexpert I am 36 week pregnant and doctor dectect the issue like missing heartbeat in me, 2D Echo is fine, is it any issue to skip a heartbeat ?

Question

Accepted Answer

It’s not uncommon for some people, including pregnant women, to occasionally feel like their heart skips a beat. These irregular heartbeats, known as palpitations or premature beats, can sometimes be felt as a missed beat, fluttering, or pounding. Most of the time, occasional skipped beats are harmless and may be due to various factors such as:

1. Hormonal changes: During pregnancy, the body experiences significant hormonal fluctuations, which can affect the heart's rhythm.

2. Increased blood volume: Pregnancy causes your body to pump more blood, putting extra strain on the heart.

3. Stress and anxiety: Emotional or physical stress can sometimes trigger palpitations or skipped beats.

4. Caffeine or certain foods: Some foods, drinks (like coffee), or even dehydration can contribute to palpitations.

However, you should be aware of the following:

Frequent skipped heartbeats or other symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting could be more concerning and should be evaluated further.

If your 2D echo is fine, it’s reassuring that there are no structural heart issues. But if the skipped heartbeats continue or worsen, it’s important to discuss it with your doctor to rule out any arrhythmias or other conditions.

What to do:

Stay calm: Occasional skipped beats without other symptoms are often not dangerous.

Monitor: Keep track of when the skipped beats happen and if they're accompanied by other symptoms.

Rest: Reduce stress and get plenty of rest, as fatigue and anxiety can worsen palpitations.

Hydrate: Ensure you're drinking enough water, especially during pregnancy.

If you're concerned or notice an increase in symptoms, it's best to consult your doctor for a more thorough evaluation, especially considering your pregnancy.

Have you experienced any other symptoms like dizziness or breathlessness?