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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.
Palpitations: Medical Definition and Explanation
Introduction
Palpitations are a common symptom described as an abnormal awareness of the heartbeat. Patients may report sensations such as rapid, irregular, or forceful heartbeats.
Causes of Palpitations
Palpitations can be benign or indicative of a more serious cardiac condition. Common causes include:
Cardiac Causes:
- Arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia)
- Structural heart disease (e.g., valvular disorders, cardiomyopathies)
- Electrical disturbances (e.g., Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome)
Non-Cardiac Causes:
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Hyperthyroidism
- Anemia
- Stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, or medications
Diagnosis of Palpitations
To determine the underlying cause, a physician may use: - Patient history and physical examination - Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect arrhythmias - Holter monitoring for extended heart rhythm analysis - Blood tests to rule out thyroid dysfunction or anemia
Management and Treatment of Palpitations
Treatment varies based on the cause: - Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and stress - Medical therapy: Beta-blockers or antiarrhythmic drugs if necessary - Procedures: Catheter ablation for specific arrhythmias
If palpitations are frequent, prolonged, or associated with symptoms such as dizziness or chest pain, immediate medical evaluation is required.
Conclusion
Palpitations can be benign or indicative of an underlying health issue. Proper evaluation and lifestyle adjustments are essential for effective management.
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 Tachycardia
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504425/
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2019/09/10/12/36/2019-ESC-Guidelines-for-Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
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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!
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