Is this a heart problem ?

Serious heart problem? Should I push the issue?

• I am 5'3 & 200 lbs- so I am overweight for my size. Well, I've been to the ER almost 10 times now- or been in the ambulance- in the past 4 weeks. My heart rate has never left the 100's but I've had a Cardiac CT, numerous EKGs & numerous heart enzyme tests as well as other heart tests- all have been normal. Doctor last night said I've even been tested for Myocardisis- where your heart just stops. I have no blockages, no clots, no calcium build up or fluid around my heart or lungs. But, I keep feeling like my heart is just going to stop. So much so, that I now have a red mark from rubbing on my chest so much. Is it just my overweightness that is making me have a high heart rate? The doctor said usually myocardisis is associated with pain, as well as a racing heart. Isn't my high heart rate a racing heart?? But he's not concerned.

• Answer:

  If there was anything seriously wrong with your heart, certainly at least one of all of those tests would have picked something up by now. I can't think of a single additional test that could be done to prove to you that your heart is perfectly fine. Yes, being physically out of shape can cause your heart rate to be high. You've received a clean bill of health from your doctor, so I strongly encourage you to start a regular exercise routine, such as doing brisk walks for 30 minutes a day 3 or 4 times a week. You need to walk briskly enough to keep your heart rate within your so-called "target training zone". You can use this online calculator to find out what your target zone is: http://exercise.about.com/cs/fitnesstools/l/bl_THR.htm From the tome of your question, I would not be surprised if you were also suffering from an anxiety disorder. If possible, you might want to seek out the services of a licensed mental health professional, just to see if everything's OK with you on an emotional level.