June 7, 2023

Can Fibroids Cause Heart Palpitation? 

Article fact-checked and approved by Dr. Didi Emokpare
Content provided in partnership with Radiant Health Magazine

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Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus and do not directly cause heart palpitations. However, in rare cases, large fibroids can pressure nearby organs, such as the bladder or intestines, leading to symptoms like increased heart rate or palpitations due to discomfort or anxiety. A healthcare professional should be consulted for a proper diagnosis when this happens.  

Heart palpitation is the feeling of having a racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping heartbeat. It’s hardly ever a sign of heart disease, but women with fibroids complain about possible heart-related difficulties.  

While heart palpitations can have causes that aren't due to underlying disease (think exercise, stress, smoking, and the use of some medications), there may be a relationship between the sensation and the uterine fibroids. But heart palpitations aren't directly a symptom of uterine fibroids. 

 Can Fibroid Be The Direct Cause Of Heart Palpitation?  

 

The short answer is no. Typically, fibroids do not directly affect breathing as they are confined to the uterus and do not interfere with lung function. 

However, the sensation can be a manifestation of heart disease. Researchers in a 2019 study discovered that most cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors were common in women with fibroids.  

Fibroids (also called leiomyomas or myomas) can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, which may lead to anaemia (low red blood cell count). Severe anaemia can indirectly affect the heart, causing symptoms like fatigue, palpitations, and shortness of breath. 

But the study concluded that although women with fibroids had more CVD risk factors, fibroids were not associated with subclinical CVD. 

In other words, just because you have fibroids does not mean you have heart disease, which would manifest as heart palpitations.  

Meanwhile, fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that can range in size from tiny seedlings to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. 

So in extreme situations, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that they reach the rib cage and can add weight. 

But if your heart races or you have chest pain when you’re exercising or walking, it could be a sign of heart disease, not directly due to the fibroid you have.  

 In such a situation, it is advisable to see your general practitioner. They will most likely send you to a cardiologist.  

What are the symptoms of Fibroid? 

  

The reality is that symptoms of fibroids depend on the location, size, and number of fibroids.  

While heart palpitation isn’t among them, a recent survey by medical experts revealed the following as the most common signs and symptoms women with uterine fibroid experience:  

  1. Difficulty emptying the bladder 
  1. Heavy menstrual flow 
  1. Extended Menstrual cycle ( lasting more than a week) 
  1. Constipation 
  1. Backache or leg pains 
  1. Pelvic pain 
  1. Increased urination 

When To See A Doctor 

 

If you suspect that you have a fibroid and your heart starts racing, especially when you exercise or are in a normal state, and it won't go away, you can talk to a doctor Now for less that 1000

The sensation may be a symptom of a heart-related issue that has nothing to do with your fibroid. 

Also, if you feel pelvic pain that doesn't go away, overly heavy, prolonged, painful periods, or anaemia, you must see the doctor at that stage. 

 FAQs 

Can fibroids affect your breathing? 

Fibroids do not directly affect breathing. They are confined to the uterus and cannot interfere with lung function. However, large fibroids may cause pressure or discomfort in the abdomen, indirectly impacting breathing. If you are experiencing breathing difficulties, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. 

What organ is affected by fibroids? 

Fibroids primarily affect the uterus, an organ in the lower abdomen. These non-cancerous growths develop within the muscular walls of the uterus. Depending on their size and location, fibroids can cause various symptoms, such as heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, and reproductive issues. 

What other symptoms can fibroids cause? 

In addition to heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, and frequent urination, fibroids can cause other symptoms such as abdominal bloating or swelling, constipation, pain during sexual intercourse, lower back pain, and reproductive issues like infertility or recurrent miscarriages. 

 What health problems can fibroids cause? 

Fibroids can lead to various health problems depending on their size, number, and location. Some potential health issues associated with fibroids include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), anaemia due to blood loss, pelvic pain or pressure, urinary tract problems, infertility, complications during pregnancy and labour, and an increased risk of cesarean section. In rare cases, fibroids may cause complications such as degeneration, torsion, or urinary or gastrointestinal tract obstruction. 

 Can fibroids affect your heart? 

Fibroids typically do not directly affect the heart. They are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus and are localised to that area. They can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, which may lead to anemia. It's best to consult a healthcare professional at this stage. 

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