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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.
What Causes Heart Palpitations?
Introduction
Heart palpitations are sensations of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat. They can be alarming but are often harmless. However, in some cases, they may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
Common Causes of Heart Palpitations
1. Lifestyle and Emotional Factors
- Stress and anxiety
- Caffeine and stimulant consumption (e.g., coffee, energy drinks, nicotine)
- Alcohol intake
- Lack of sleep
- Intense physical activity
2. Medical Conditions
- Heart-related conditions: Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), heart failure, coronary artery disease
- Hormonal imbalances: Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), menopause
- Electrolyte imbalances: Low potassium, magnesium, calcium
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count can cause palpitations
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Common in diabetes patients or after fasting for long periods
3. Medications and Substances
- Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine
- Asthma medications (e.g., beta-agonists)
- Some antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs
- Overuse of dietary supplements (e.g., excessive vitamin B12, energy drinks)
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if palpitations are accompanied by: - Chest pain or discomfort - Shortness of breath - Dizziness or fainting - Irregular heart rhythms - Symptoms worsening over time
Conclusion
Most heart palpitations are benign and related to lifestyle or minor imbalances. However, if they are frequent, intense, or associated with other symptoms, a doctor should determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Related Clinical Guidelines
For more information, refer to the following guidelines: - 2023 American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines on Arrhythmias - 2021 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation
Source recommendations
1. 2023 American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2023/11/29/18/58/New-ACC-AHA-Guideline-Focuses-on-Diagnosis-Management-of-AFib-gl-af
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001168
- https://www.acc.org/Guidelines
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405500X22010945
2. 2021 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
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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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