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What Causes A Fluttering Under The Ribs When Having Diarrhea And Cold?
Question: I have had dirreah and a cold and now notice a flutter under my left rib, no pain.
Brief Answer:
may be due to fluid and electrolyte loss
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Diarrhea is associated with loss of fluids and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride) unless they are adequately replaced.
During a cold , there may also be decreased body fluids because of decreased intake, fluid and electrolyte loss via the skin if there is any fever.
The decreased body fluid volume and loss of electrolytes can cause both minor heart palpitations (which can be sometimes felt like a flutter in the chest) or spasms of the muscles and other soft tissues (also felt as an abnormal sensation).
This is because these electrolytes (particularly potassium in the heart) play a role in the conduction of impulses in the muscle and heart.
Normally when normal diet is resumed, the electrolytes and fluid volume returns to normal after a few days.
The use of sports drinks (which are packed with electrolytes) may help.
If it continues or worsens , then you may need to see your doctor for an ECG to check the rhythm and rate of the heart.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
may be due to fluid and electrolyte loss
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Diarrhea is associated with loss of fluids and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride) unless they are adequately replaced.
During a cold , there may also be decreased body fluids because of decreased intake, fluid and electrolyte loss via the skin if there is any fever.
The decreased body fluid volume and loss of electrolytes can cause both minor heart palpitations (which can be sometimes felt like a flutter in the chest) or spasms of the muscles and other soft tissues (also felt as an abnormal sensation).
This is because these electrolytes (particularly potassium in the heart) play a role in the conduction of impulses in the muscle and heart.
Normally when normal diet is resumed, the electrolytes and fluid volume returns to normal after a few days.
The use of sports drinks (which are packed with electrolytes) may help.
If it continues or worsens , then you may need to see your doctor for an ECG to check the rhythm and rate of the heart.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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