Feeling a pulse in your stomach might seem strange, but it’s usually nothing to worry about. Sometimes, though, it could be a sign of a health problem. This article discusses why you feel your heartbeat in your stomach, when it’s normal, and when you should see a doctor.

What Makes Your Stomach Pulse?

The pulse you feel in your stomach comes from the abdominal aorta. This is a big artery that carries blood from your heart to your lower body. Since it’s located in your abdomen, its beat might be noticeable.

Common Reasons for Feeling a Pulse

You Have Less Body Fat: If you’re thin or have little fat around your stomach, it’s easier to feel the artery’s pulse because there’s less tissue between the artery and your skin.
Normal Blood Flow: After exercising or when you’re stressed, your heart pumps harder to get blood moving faster. This can make the pulse easier to feel.
Lying Down: When you lie on your back, especially on a hard surface, the artery is closer to your skin, making the pulse more noticeable.

When Is It Normal to Feel This Pulse?

In many cases, feeling a pulse in your stomach is completely normal. For instance:

When you’re lying down or relaxed.
After physical activity.
During emotional moments like excitement or stress.

The pulse should go away when your body calms down.

When Should You Worry About It?

While feeling a pulse in your stomach is usually harmless, sometimes it can be a warning sign of a serious issue. One example is an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). This happens when the wall of the abdominal aorta gets weak and bulges out. If it bursts, it can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Strong Pulse: A strong, steady pulse in your stomach that doesn’t stop.
Pain: Constant pain in your stomach, back, or sides.
Tenderness: Pain when you press on your stomach.
Dizziness or Fainting: These may happen if the aneurysm bursts.

If you notice these symptoms, seek medical help right away.

Risk Factors for AAA

Some things can make you more likely to get an abdominal aortic aneurysm, such as:

Age: It’s more common in people over 65.
Smoking: Smoking weakens artery walls over time.
High Blood Pressure: This adds extra strain on your arteries.
Family History: If others in your family have had aneurysms, you might be at higher risk.
Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries due to plaque buildup can make them weaker.

How to Tell Normal Pulses From Concerning Ones

Mild and Temporary: Normal pulses are usually faint and happen after exercise or when you’re lying down.
Strong and Persistent: If the pulse is strong, lasts a long time, or comes with pain or dizziness, see a doctor.

How Do Doctors Check for an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

If your doctor thinks you might have an aneurysm, they could suggest tests like:

Ultrasound: This painless test shows images of your abdominal aorta.
CT Scan: Gives a detailed look at the size and condition of the aneurysm.
MRI: Provides a clear picture of your abdomen to confirm any issues.

Finding an aneurysm early can prevent serious problems.

What Should You Do if You Feel a Pulse in Your Stomach?

Keep an Eye on It: If it’s mild and doesn’t last long, it’s likely normal.
See a Doctor: If the pulse is strong, lasts a long time, or comes with pain, dizziness, or tenderness, talk to a doctor.
Stay Healthy: Eat a balanced diet, don’t smoke, and manage your blood pressure and cholesterol to protect your arteries.

The Bottom Line

Feeling a pulse in your stomach is often normal, especially if you’re thin, lying down, or just exercised. However, a strong and steady pulse with other symptoms could mean something serious, like an abdominal aortic aneurysm. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor to make sure everything is okay.