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Heart Palpitations

I was diagnosed in 2016 with RRMS. Does anyone else have heart palpitations that may have started from your MS? I get them occasionally, or maybe I did have them more and just didnt notice. But now I have them very noticeable all the time. They started a couple weeks back seemingly most all the time. If I move around my heart seems ok, but when starting to rest my heart skips a beat every so many beats. Sometimes every 3 beats, sometimes every 10 or more. But its there constant. I think MS can cause this. Anyone else have them?

I am meeting with my neuro in a couple weeks and will discuss.

  1. Hi, !

    I haven't found much data linking heart palpitations to MS or to the medications used to manage MS symptoms, so there's that. But, please keep in mind I am not an expert.

    I think it's smart that you are seeing your neurologist and I would suggest keeping track of each heart palpitation episode you experience. Also note if they are happening at the same time of day or after a certain activity, etc. This information may help your doctor figure out the next step to getting to the bottom of what's going on.

    If your episodes worsen or you notice any additional issues (lightheadedness, sweating, pain, etc), make note of those and maybe let your doctor know, just to be safe. And, if the symptoms become truly concerning, don't hesitate to go to the ER. Better safe than sorry.

    I do hope the palpitations are just a minor, manageable issue!

    Best, Erin, Team Member.

    1. heart problems and MS are not usual but that doesn't mean it can't be linked. If you have a longer wait to see you neurologist you might want to check in with your primary care physician beforehand. I would take an educated (from my own heart history and that of other family members and friends) guess that your neuro will recommend a referral for additional tests such as an EKG or even a stress test to see if they can find the problems. Please be sure to ask about this when you have your next medical visit. Laura, MSnet moderator, DX '08

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