Can Cancer Cause Heart Palpitations?
May 23, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, cancer can cause heart palpitations, although this is not a common direct symptom of cancer itself. There are several mechanisms through which cancer might lead to heart palpitations:
- Paraneoplastic Syndromes: These are rare disorders triggered by an immune response to a neoplasm (cancer). Some of these syndromes can affect the heart, potentially causing arrhythmias or palpitations.
- Tumor Location and Pressure: Tumors located in or near the chest area can sometimes exert pressure on the heart or adjacent structures, potentially causing heart palpitations.
- Metabolic Changes: Cancer can cause significant metabolic and electrolyte imbalances, such as hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), which can lead to arrhythmias and palpitations.
- Treatment Side Effects: Many cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can have cardiotoxic effects. Drugs like anthracyclines (e.g., doxorubicin) and targeted therapies (e.g., trastuzumab) are known to potentially cause heart problems, including palpitations.
- Anemia: Cancer can cause anemia either directly or as a result of treatment. Anemia can lead to a higher heart rate as the heart works harder to deliver oxygen throughout the body, resulting in palpitations.
- Stress and Anxiety: A cancer diagnosis and the associated stress and anxiety can lead to heart palpitations.
If you or someone you know is experiencing heart palpitations and has cancer, it is important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider. They can determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.