Visible pulsating neck?

[Bisoman]

I seem to have a very visible pulse in my neck which is always pulsating and can be visible. My cardiologist isn't concerned because my echocardiogram was fine and showered no structural damage so therefore they won't do further tests. Does anyone experience this or not really?

[PadThaiNoodles]

My pulse is easily visible in my neck.

I used to also have a visible pulse in a vein in my wrist, from the shockwave of my mitral valve regurgitant jet. My cardiologist thought that was pretty neat; I was less impressed.

[Baxterburger in reply to PadThaiNoodles]

Seek a second opinion. Also research cardiac tamponade.

[onadiet]

Yes I get it strongly on certain blood pressure meds.or stronger doses.Ive got high blood pressure,heart block & poss.Angina so need meds.Im 73 & can't take strong doses.With Amlodipine I get strong pounding heartbeat in neck,chest,stomach & even feel it in my back. Other symptoms as well. Maybe your meds.

[andy110519]

I have since OHS for a mechanical aortic valve. Only on warfarin, assumed it was the mechanical valve.Take care.

Andy

[DodgyTickerMum]

I have this too - since O.H.S for a replacement mitral valve last year. I’ve always had an irregular heart beat / ectopics and extra systoles. Went into A.F for a time post op. Now back in sinus rhythm. However, as the pulsating in my neck was really prominent, I was sent for another Carotid Doppler to rule out a possible aneurysm.

Cardiologist confirmed I was having Venous Pulsations, linked to the ectopics (which you’re advised not to worry about…) and blood going back through my tricuspid valve whilst it was open. She said because it’s the ectopics and the venous system causing my issue - doesn’t interfere with the function of the heart. So try not to worry about it… 🤞🏻

As your Echo didn’t flag anything up hopefully you’ll be fine too.

[PadThaiNoodles]

I should probably mention that like andy110519 and DodgyTickerMum I have had OHS for valve work (mitral valve repair and aortic valve replacement - mechanical).

I don't think my pericardium was closed (it usually isn't, but can be), so tamponade shouldn't be an issue.

[eddiebo]

Back in 2018, I had a series of hospital tests to see what could have been causing my pulsing and distended external jugular veins (both sides of my neck). My GP said he have never come across anything like it before. The result was that no cause of this could be found and so is more likely to be physiological rather than anatomical. I still have it and it causes me no bother. In 2024, I had a heart attack (MINOCA) but was not related to the jugular veins.

[Jedi14]

Not really!