Understanding Palpitations

Introduction

Palpitations are the sensation of an irregular, rapid, or forceful heartbeat. They can feel like your heart is: - Fluttering - Pounding - Beating too fast - Skipping beats

Common Causes of Palpitations

Palpitations can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Cardiac Causes

• Arrhythmias – Irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia.
• Structural Heart Disease – Conditions like heart valve disorders or cardiomyopathies can alter heart function.
• Heart Failure – A failing heart may trigger abnormal rhythms.

2. Non-Cardiac Causes

• Anxiety and Stress – Strong emotions or panic attacks can increase heart rate.
• Caffeine, Alcohol, and Stimulants – Caffeine, nicotine, and certain drugs (e.g., decongestants) can stimulate palpitations.
• Thyroid Disorders – Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect heart rhythm.
• Electrolyte Imbalance – Low levels of key electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, or calcium can affect heart function.

3. Lifestyle and External Factors

• Dehydration – A lack of fluids can lower blood pressure and strain the heart.
• Fever or Infection – Increased body temperature can raise heart rate.
• Intense Physical Activity – Exercise-induced palpitations can occur in healthy individuals.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Palpitations are often harmless, but you should see a doctor if you experience: - Dizziness or fainting - Chest pain or pressure - Shortness of breath - A racing heart that doesn’t stop - Palpitations associated with a known heart condition

Diagnosis and Treatment

A doctor may recommend: - ECG (Electrocardiogram) – To check for arrhythmias. - Holter Monitor – A wearable ECG for 24-48 hours to detect intermittent palpitations. - Blood Tests – To check for thyroid function and electrolyte imbalance. - Lifestyle Changes – Reducing stress, avoiding stimulants, and staying hydrated. - Medications or Procedures – If an arrhythmia is diagnosed.

Conclusion

Palpitations are common, and while they can be harmless, they may also indicate an underlying medical condition. Monitoring symptoms and seeking medical advice when needed can help ensure heart health.

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 Palpitations

1. https://www.escardio.org/Journals/E-Journal-of-Cardiology-Practice/Volume-13/Paroxysmal-tachycardias-How-to-address-the-clinical-presentation-of-a-patient-w
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
3. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
4. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
5. https://academic.oup.com/europace/article/13/7/920/447426