Stuffed Stomach = Racing Heart - Panic Disorders Message Board

redherring · 08-22-2004, 03:54 PM

Has anyone experienced a racing heart after eating a heavy meal? Mine always turns into a PA. TIA

StormLuvver · 08-22-2004, 04:20 PM

HI. I have gotten that same experience over the years. All I can figure is that when we eat too much, it presses on our diaphragm causing a rapid heartbeat. Sometimes I get that feeling of my heart fluttering too after a meal. I have also suffered panic attacks, so maybe our personalities add to the problem. I hope I helped a little.

redherring · 08-22-2004, 04:24 PM

Most definitely, Storm. I just make worse by freaking out about it. I just need some validation from others that this a normal physical response.

IMdizzy2 · 08-22-2004, 04:33 PM

Yes and I believe I know the cause.....My fiance is a medical technician and I mentioned having this problem to him before. He said that when you eat, extra blood is carried to your stomach to aid in digestion which, in turn, takes some blood away from your brain. My theory based on this information is that during this process (and when you are prone to anxiety) the shift can exacerbate anxiety thus causing your heart to race....As I said, this is only a theory of mine, but it seems logical and helps me to relax when I eat. I hope this helps...

P.S. Because of this feeling I try to eat several small, light meals throughout the day rather than any large meals and this also seems to help....

Ladybandit08 · 08-22-2004, 08:19 PM

Yes, I get the same thing, especially after heavy meals of pasta, i try to avoid that, because it just leads to a major panic attack...So you arent alone! Though i am not sure what causes it but there is some good advice in the thread...
Take Care!