Heart Palpitation, Difficulty in Sleeping, Afraid in the Dark

For a few months now I though I had heart palpitation, I’m not exactly sure though. I don’t have any chest pain, but it feels like there is pounding in my chest. I usually feel pounding when I exercise (push-ups and bicycle sets 4 times a week), when trying to sleep, and when fasting (I abstain from eating and drinking from midnight to 6 in the evening once a week). I don’t drink coffee or smoke, but I have soft drinks and tea on a regular basis. I don’t think I’m not under any stress or anxiety since I don’t work and haven’t begun school yet. Also I do become afraid at night when it’s dark, I’m alone (also during the day), and it’s too quiet. Not forgetting it is very difficult to fall asleep at night whether I have a nap or not (sometimes not). Do I have heart palpitations?

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Dr. Joshua’s Answer:

Yes, you have palpitations, but that just means you are aware of your heart. Palpitation itself does not mean that you have heart disease. When you exercise, it’s normal for the heart to start pounding as it needs to pump more blood. On the other hand, when you are lying in bed, especially if you’re having difficulty in falling asleep, it’s common to have palpitations. This leads to anxiety about the heart, and leads to more pounding.

I recommend that you see your family doctor about this, have him/her check your heart and blood pressure, and you might also benefit from a small dose of beta-blocker at night. Also just having had your heart checked will ease your concerns.