Stomach Palpitations

Stomach palpitations is a type of stomach problem that is linked to indigestion or unhealthy eating habits. This disorder causes stomach discomfort and pain. People experiencing stomach palpitations feel something similar to a pulse around their stomach area. For some people, stomach palpitations may be a mild nuisance, but for others, it can be a serious condition. The stomach is one of the most important organs of the body, as it digests the food we eat, and supplies nutrition to different parts of the body. Stomach problems also affect the normal functioning of the lungs and heart. When indigestion occurs, the stomach expands or swells with gas. In such cases, the person is likely to have stomach palpitations and may even experience shortness of breath.

Causes of Stomach Palpitations

Causes of stomach palpitations can range from poor digestive health to a serious medical condition. Unhealthy eating habits are considered to be the main cause of stomach palpitations. Exposure to undue stress (job related pressure) can also cause this stomach problem. Other causes of stomach palpitations are as follows:

• Excessive consumption of beverages that contain high levels of caffeine
• Alcohol abuse: Too much drinking, or consuming alcohol on an empty stomach
• Irritation in the stomach due to gastrointestinal upsets
• Constipation
• Junk food: With the increasing popularity of fast food, stomach problems such as stomach palpitations have become common. The younger generation's penchant for junk food is putting them at a greater risk of various diseases related to the stomach. Spicy food should not be a part of your daily menu. Heavy meals or overeating must be strictly avoided as it can cause a stomach upset, which may lead to insomnia, and ultimately to stomach palpitations.
• No fixed meal time: An irregular eating schedule causes a negative impact on the wall of the stomach, leading to a burning sensation and the occurrence of stomach ulcers. This gives rise to discomfort in the form of stomach palpitations.
• Starvation: The stomach secretes juices to help digest food. However, for people who do not eat food, or starve, these juices may harm the stomach wall, giving rise to stomach palpitations.
• Change of Emotions: Over excitement, moments of nervousness, sadness or happiness can give rise to the feeling of stomach palpitations. Some people are very nervous before conducting an important event. These fluttery, nervous feelings can often lead to this stomach problem, commonly known as "butterflies in the stomach".
• Medications: Consuming unsuitable medicines, or taking medicines on an empty stomach is also known to cause this problem.

Treatment for Stomach Palpitations

If the stomach is not healthy, it not only causes stomach palpitations, but also leads to weakness and anemia. A slight change in the choices of food can restore stomach health. People suffering from stomach palpitations should keep an eye on their diet. Excessive smoking should be avoided, as it can cause stomach upsets. Diet should include foods rich in fiber to release the stomach from the burden of accumulated excreta. Vegetables such as broccoli, peas, carrots, and, fruits such as oranges, strawberries and bananas can easily move through the digestive tract, thus helping the digestive system to function properly. Stomach palpitations caused due to excitement is temporary and disappear quickly.

Lifestyle modifications that include fixed eating hours, along with regular exercise can prevent stomach palpitations and help you to lead a better life.