Heart Palpitations: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Worry

Introduction

Heart palpitations are sensations of a rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeat. You might feel like your heart is pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats. They can be harmless, but sometimes they indicate an underlying heart condition.

Common Symptoms

• Fluttering in the chest: A sensation of movement or quivering in the heart.
• Rapid heartbeat (Tachycardia): Feeling like your heart is beating too fast.
• Skipped beats (Extrasystoles): A sensation of missing a heartbeat.
• Pounding sensation: A strong, forceful heartbeat that is noticeable.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Can occur if palpitations affect blood flow to the brain.
• Shortness of breath: A feeling of breathlessness, especially with exertion.
• Chest discomfort or pain: May indicate a more serious issue, such as a heart condition.

Possible Causes

Heart palpitations can result from various factors, including: - Stress and Anxiety: Emotional distress triggers the release of adrenaline, which can cause palpitations. - Caffeine, Alcohol, and Nicotine: Stimulants can increase heart rate and rhythm irregularities. - Strenuous Exercise: Physical activity may lead to temporary palpitations. - Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid problems can contribute. - Medication Side Effects: Some decongestants, asthma inhalers, and antidepressants may trigger palpitations. - Electrolyte Imbalances: Low potassium, magnesium, or calcium can disrupt heart function. - Heart Conditions: Arrhythmias, heart failure, or valve disorders may be at play.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical care if you experience: - Palpitations with chest pain - Shortness of breath or fainting - A history of heart disease - Palpitations lasting for a prolonged period

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors may conduct tests such as an ECG (Electrocardiogram), Holter monitoring, or blood tests to identify any cardiac issues. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures like ablation therapy if an arrhythmia is detected.

Prevention Tips

• Manage stress: Try meditation or breathing exercises.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Avoid excessive stimulant intake.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eat potassium- and magnesium-rich foods.
• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can trigger palpitations.
• Track symptoms: Keeping a diary may help identify triggers.

Conclusion

While heart palpitations are often harmless, it is important to recognize when they may signal a more serious heart condition. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias

1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
4. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Arrhythmias

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84