HEART PALPITATIONS

A pounding, racing pulse of up to 200 beats a minute may accompany hot flashes at any time during premenopause; they are not indicative of heart disease! Instead they may be caused by electrolyte imbalances from fluid loss if you sweat heavily, or can be triggered by strenuous exercise or strong emotions. Christiane Northrup, M.D. states they are the result of imbalances between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and are often related to fear or anxiety.

Like hot flashes, palpitations can range from mild to severe. They are rarely dangerous, though they can be very frightening. Perhaps these palpitations are a good reminder, however, that women account for 51% of all cardiovascular deaths. But don't think HRT will protect you from heart disease; the latest studies indicate just the opposite. Using synthetic hormones to treat premenopausal symptoms can actually contribute to heart disease. It's enlightening to learn that women whose ovaries are surgically removed at a young age (thus depriving them of estrogen and progesterone) do not have a higher incidence of heart attacks than other women their age.

Heart Disease Facts

• Heart disease is rare in premenopausal women 
  
• Heart disease is the most frequent cause of death in women over 50
  
• Heart attack, though usually occurring later in life, is twice as deadly in women as in men.
  
• One in two women will die of coronary artery disease or stroke
• Only one woman in 25 will die of breast cancer

QUICK TIPS

• Herbs which treat the uterus also treat the heart; both are smooth muscles and produce hormones.
• Motherwort is the classic remedy for both, and can also give your heart emotional strength to make difficult decisions regarding self-care - especially if you perceive it to be at the expense of others.
  
• Other helpful plants include hawthorn, rose, strawberry and raspberry.
  
• Eating berries regularly can help ease palpitations, and they are filled with terrific antioxidants.