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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Are Palpitations Serious?
Introduction
Palpitations are the sensation of a rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeat. Many people describe the feeling as if their heart is fluttering, skipping beats, or pounding. While palpitations are often harmless, they can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
Possible Causes of Palpitations
Palpitations can be caused by a variety of factors, including: - Lifestyle factors: Stress, anxiety, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and certain medications. - Heart conditions: Arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), or heart valve disorders. - Medical conditions: Hyperthyroidism, anemia, dehydration, low blood sugar, and electrolyte imbalances.
When to See a Doctor
While occasional palpitations are normal, you should consult a doctor if you experience: - Frequent or persistent palpitations. - Dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath. - A history of heart disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A doctor may perform tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), a Holter monitor, blood tests, or an echocardiogram to identify the cause. Treatment depends on the underlying reason and may include lifestyle changes, medications, or specific interventions for heart rhythm disorders.
Conclusion
Most palpitations are not serious, but if they are accompanied by other symptoms or are frequent, medical evaluation is essential. Managing stress, avoiding stimulants, and staying hydrated can help reduce palpitations.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Supraventricular Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504425/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.