Palpitations aren't always a major danger sign, but they do deserve your attention. When your heart is beating irregularly, you may want to try simple solutions before jumping into invasive tests or prescription medications. Acupressure may be able to help. Talk to your doctor about its potential as a remedy or complement to traditional medicine. If you suffer an irregular heartbeat accompanied by sharp pains, blindness or dizziness, call 911.
Palpitations
Heart palpitations can present differently in different people or even create different sensations in the same person. A palpitation is any irregularity that creates awareness of your heartbeat. You may feel it as racing, pounding or skipped beats. You may feel it in your chest, neck or throat. Since it can vary so widely, its causes could be anything from too much caffeine to serious heart disease. Pay attention to when and how it happens and visit a doctor. If it's something non-life threatening, acupressure may help.
Acupressure
Acupressure is a technique of traditional Chinese medicine. An acupressurist applies manual pressure to specific points on your body to clear blockages in meridians or energy pathways, so that your body can heal itself as needed. The Dana Foundation reports that these points may influence neurochemical systems in the brain and spinal cord that regulate, among other functions, cardiac irregularity. Tell your acupressurist about your symptoms and your doctor's recommendations to learn if this technique can resolve your palpitations.
Heart 7
The specific point that acupressurists and traditional Chinese medicine doctors use for general heart palpitations is Heart 7. This name refers to its location on the heart meridian, the pathway that relates to the functioning of the heart and other body parts. Heart 7 is located in a crease on the outer sides of the wrists. It is sometimes called the Spirit Gate or Mind Door, because it can help with anxiety and overexcitement, which may affect palpitations, too. Your acupressurist is likely to incorporate other points for a holistic treatment that is specific to your body.
Contraindications
Acupressure can be very helpful for palpitations, but it's not for everyone. If your palpitations are part of a serious disease, acupressure may aid in healing, but it should not be your sole remedy. It may also be inappropriate if you suffer blood pressure problems, arteriosclerosis or bacterial infections. Pregnant women should communicate with their doctors and acupressurists about specific points that may be contraindicated.
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