I am 55 yrs old. Been having palpitations over the last couple of years. Visited the ER alot. Take maxide for BP. Have mild sleep apnea. R/o heart issues, since I had a total workup, only small amount of plaque. Drink @ 4 cups of coffee, smoke 4-6 cigs a day. Using ecigs lately. The rapid heartbeats are visible in neck, palpitations uncomfortable. Been in menopause for 3 years, and have gained weight, especially upper stomach.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. Visible pulsations in neck area are due to raised JVP (jugular venous pressure). And raised JVP can be due to heart and lung diseases. Since heart diseases have been ruled out, we should search for Pulmonary causes. You are having sleep apnea and smoking cigarettes too. So this can cause Pulmonary hypertension and bronchitis. And both these can cause palpitations and raised JVP. So get done PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) and 2d echo for the diagnosis of these diseases. Better to quit smoking as soon as possible. First diagnose yourself and then start appropriate treatment. Don't worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.