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IBS and palpitations

Palpitations are unpleasant and can be quite alarming. Basically, palpitations can be described as awareness that your heart is missing beats, beating forcefully or very fast, or beating irregularly. Some people also describe it as a sensation of “fluttering” in their chest. There are many factors that can cause palpitations ranging from heart disease, thyroid problems, and some types of medication to smoking, stress, anxiety and drinking too much caffeine or alcohol.

IBS is a disorder affecting the digestive system resulting in symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation or alternating diarrhoea and constipation, along with pain in the abdomen, abdominal bloating and gas. IBS can be very distressing, particularly if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily activities.

It is now well known that although anxiety and stress do not actually cause irritable bowel syndrome they can play an important role in triggering IBS symptoms and many people who suffer from IBS also suffer from anxiety and stress, which can also result in palpitations. This in itself is enough to increase stress levels leading to a worsening of IBS symptoms and even more anxiety and of course even more frequent palpitations. This vicious circle has to be broken.

If you have been diagnosed with IBS and you are also suffering from palpitations then you will almost certainly be required to make some lifestyle changes in order to find relief. One of the first things to tackle, apart from dealing with the most troublesome physical symptoms, is any underlying anxiety or stress that could be contributing to your palpitations. This could be problems at home or work, an inability to relax and switch off at the end of the day, a busy schedule, an inappropriate diet, and so on. By reducing the amount of stress in your life and learning how to relax not only are the symptoms of IBS likely to improve but you may also find that the palpitations disappear without any further intervention.

Simple tips for reducing stress levels

Eat smaller meals regularly and make mealtimes as relaxed and as stress-free as possible
Take more exercise, even a daily 30 minute walk can make a significant difference or take up yoga which will exercise the body and calm the mind
Cut out smoking, alcohol and caffeinated drinks
Get into a regular sleeping pattern and get enough sleep every night
Avoid eating anything in the last few hours before going to bed
Make a point of engaging in social activities and spending time with friends and loved ones
Learn some relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
Spend at least some time each day just for yourself

If you feel that your stress levels are very high to the extent it is affecting your relationships, your work or your social life, or you are suffering from anxiety, panic attacks or depression, speak to your doctor for more advice. If your symptoms are particularly severe you may benefit from some form of medication. Another option which is proving to be useful for both anxiety and IBS is cognitive behaviour therapy or talking therapies, which focus on how you process your thoughts and how you see the world around you. By recognising and changing some negative thought patterns, it is possible to expose and deal with any underlying problems or worries that may be contributing to your anxiety and palpitations.