Helicobacter pylori is a common bacterium that colonizes the stomach, often without causing any issues. Heart palpitations are the noticeable sensations of a rapid, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat. While a direct causal link is still under investigation, researchers are exploring several biological pathways that could connect the two conditions.
Explaining the Link Between H. Pylori and Heart Palpitations
A chronic H. pylori infection provokes a persistent inflammatory response in the stomach lining. This localized inflammation can lead to the release of signaling molecules, known as cytokines, into the bloodstream. Once circulating systemically, these inflammatory markers may contribute to irritation and structural changes in cardiac tissue, potentially disrupting the heart’s electrical system that coordinates each beat.
The infection can also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients from food. Damage to the gastric lining may impair the uptake of iron and vitamin B12, both of which are needed to produce healthy red blood cells. A deficiency in either of these can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells. With fewer red blood cells to transport oxygen, the heart must pump harder and faster to meet the body’s demands, a state that is often felt as a racing heart or palpitations.
Another connection involves the vagus nerve, a nerve that runs from the brain to the abdomen, connecting the gut and the heart. This nerve helps regulate both digestive processes and heart rate. It is theorized that the inflammation, bloating, and gas produced by an H. pylori infection could physically irritate or stimulate the vagus nerve. This irritation might send erratic or overactive signals to the heart’s pacemaker, leading to arrhythmias or the sensation of palpitations.
Living with the chronic discomfort of a gastrointestinal infection can also be a source of stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety are well-documented triggers for heart palpitations, as they activate the body’s “fight or flight” response. This response releases hormones like adrenaline, which directly increases heart rate and the force of contraction.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of H. Pylori Infection
An H. pylori infection is primarily associated with a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. Individuals may experience a dull or burning pain in the stomach, which often worsens when the stomach is empty. Other common signs include:
- Bloating
- Frequent burping
- Nausea
- A feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food
- Unintentional weight loss
To confirm an infection, physicians have several reliable diagnostic tools. Among the most common non-invasive methods is the urea breath test, which detects a specific enzyme the bacteria produces in the stomach. Another widely used option is the stool antigen test, which identifies H. pylori proteins in a fecal sample. Blood tests can also be used to check for antibodies to the bacteria, though they are sometimes less accurate for diagnosing an active infection.
In certain situations, particularly if symptoms are severe or a patient is at higher risk for complications, a more direct examination may be necessary. An upper endoscopy involves passing a thin, flexible tube with a camera through the mouth to view the lining of the stomach and small intestine. During this procedure, a small tissue sample, or biopsy, can be taken from the stomach lining and tested directly for the presence of H. pylori.
When a patient presents with heart palpitations, a comprehensive diagnostic approach is taken. A healthcare provider will work to rule out more direct cardiac causes, such as structural heart disease or primary electrical disorders.
Treatment and Managing Symptoms
The standard medical approach to eradicating H. pylori involves a combination of medications taken over a course of 10 to 14 days. Treatment includes at least two different antibiotics to kill the bacteria, as using multiple types helps prevent antibiotic resistance. Alongside the antibiotics, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is prescribed to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, which helps the antibiotics work more effectively and allows the inflamed stomach lining to heal.
If an H. pylori infection is identified as the likely trigger for heart palpitations, successfully eliminating the bacteria may lead to the resolution of the cardiac symptoms. However, this outcome is not guaranteed for every individual, and it can take time for the body’s systems to return to normal after the infection is cleared.
Completing the full course of prescribed medication is required to ensure the infection is completely eradicated. Following up with a healthcare provider after treatment is also recommended to confirm the bacteria are gone, often through a repeat breath or stool test. If palpitations persist long after successful treatment, it suggests the need to investigate other potential cardiac or non-cardiac causes.