[63F] Experiencing heart palpitations and right-sided abdominal pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Gallstones or Gallbladder Disease: The location and nature of your abdominal pain, along with your mother's history of a non-functioning gallbladder, suggest that gallstones or gallbladder disease could be a possibility. Gallstones can cause intermittent, crampy pain in the right upper part of your abdomen. The pain can come and go and may get worse after a meal. Changes in bowel movements and stool color may also occur.

  • Treatment usually involves a change in diet to avoid fatty foods that can trigger symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the gallbladder.

• Arrhythmia: This is a condition where the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm, which could explain your racing heart and fluttering sensations. Some types of arrhythmia can cause lightheadedness.

  • Treatment can range from lifestyle changes and medications to more invasive procedures like a pacemaker or defibrillator implantation, depending on the type and severity of the arrhythmia.

• Anxiety Disorder: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including a racing heart and stomach pain. However, it's important to rule out physical causes first.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.

• Side Effects of Medication: Vagifem, which you are taking, can in rare cases cause palpitations as a side effect.

  • If this is the case, your doctor may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform tests such as an ultrasound to check for gallstones, or an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate your heart rhythm.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.
3. Continue to follow a strict gluten-free diet to manage your Celiac disease.
4. Stay hydrated and try to eat small, frequent meals instead of large meals to see if this helps with your abdominal pain.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Fainting

Remember, this advice is intended to be helpful and informative, but it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.