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What Causes Vomiting, Tightness In Chest And Irregular Heartbeats?

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Posted on Fri, 22 Jan 2016
Question: I am 36 years old. I've had bulimia on and off for over ten years. for the past few weeks it's been pretty active, throwing up 1-3 times a day, usually most of what I eat during the day. I'm having some tightness in my chest, and I've noticed some uneven heart beats. I just want to know what I should do right now?
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Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (12 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Regarding chest tightness:

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

I am concerned about the chest tightness. If it feels like chest pressure, you should go to the ER. And if you have any aspirin in the house, take an aspirin for it's cardioprotective effects.

If it is tightness in breathing rather than sensation of chest pressure, this can be caused by non-cardiac things.

The uneven beats may be from electrolyte imbalances from vomiting, in particular low potassium. If they are accompanied by light headedness, or chest pain or pressure, then they are of concern.

I hope this helps. And regarding whether to go to the ER or not, better to err on the side of caution and go.

You may also get help there with a referral for your eating disorder.

Best wishes to you.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3134 Questions

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What Causes Vomiting, Tightness In Chest And Irregular Heartbeats?

Brief Answer: Regarding chest tightness: Detailed Answer: Hello XXXXXXX I am concerned about the chest tightness. If it feels like chest pressure, you should go to the ER. And if you have any aspirin in the house, take an aspirin for it's cardioprotective effects. If it is tightness in breathing rather than sensation of chest pressure, this can be caused by non-cardiac things. The uneven beats may be from electrolyte imbalances from vomiting, in particular low potassium. If they are accompanied by light headedness, or chest pain or pressure, then they are of concern. I hope this helps. And regarding whether to go to the ER or not, better to err on the side of caution and go. You may also get help there with a referral for your eating disorder. Best wishes to you.