Palpitations

Palpitations are sensations of a fast or irregular heartbeat. While they can be caused by stress, exercise, or other factors, they can also signal an underlying heart condition.

What Are Palpitations?

Palpitations refer to the feeling of an irregular, fast, or pounding heartbeat. You may experience palpitations in your chest, throat, or neck, and they can last for a few seconds to minutes. Although palpitations are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying heart conditions, arrhythmias, or other health problems.

Common Sensations of Palpitations:

Fluttering or skipped beats.
Rapid or pounding heartbeat.
A feeling that the heart is beating too hard.
Flip-flopping sensation in the chest.

Causes of Palpitations

Palpitations can be triggered by a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle habits to underlying medical conditions.

1. Lifestyle & Environmental Triggers

Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can cause a surge in adrenaline, leading to palpitations.
Excessive Caffeine or Nicotine: Stimulants can increase heart rate and cause irregular beats.
Alcohol or Drug Use: Substances like cocaine, amphetamines, or excessive alcohol can trigger heart rhythm disturbances.
Dehydration: Lack of fluids can lead to electrolyte imbalances, affecting heart function.

2. Medical Conditions Linked to Palpitations

Arrhythmias: Conditions such as atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, or bradycardia can cause palpitations.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Increased pressure can put strain on the heart.
Thyroid Disorders: Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can cause heart rhythm disturbances.
Anemia: A lack of oxygen-carrying red blood cells can make the heart beat faster.
Heart Valve Disease: Conditions like mitral valve prolapse can trigger palpitations.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

While occasional palpitations are common, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Serious Symptoms Accompanying Palpitations:

Chest pain or pressure.
Fainting or dizziness.
Severe shortness of breath.
Confusion or blurred vision.
Irregular heartbeats lasting more than a few minutes.

Note: These symptoms could indicate a serious heart condition, such as a heart attack, arrhythmia, or heart failure.

Diagnosis of Palpitations

Doctors use various tests to determine the cause of palpitations and rule out heart disease.

Common Diagnostic Tests:

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the heart’s electrical activity.
Holter Monitor: A 24-48 hour portable device that monitors heart rhythms.
Event Monitor: Worn for weeks to record irregular episodes.
Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to assess heart structure.
Blood Tests: Checks for thyroid issues, electrolyte imbalances, or anemia.

Treatment for Palpitations

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of palpitations. In many cases, lifestyle adjustments may be enough to prevent recurrence.

1. Lifestyle Changes

Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake.
Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises.
Stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance.
Get enough sleep to prevent heart strain.

2. Medications

Beta-Blockers: Used for arrhythmias and high blood pressure.
Calcium Channel Blockers: Helps regulate heart rhythm.
Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Treats irregular heartbeats.

3. Medical Procedures

Cardioversion: An electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm.
Ablation Therapy: Destroys abnormal heart tissue causing palpitations.
Pacemaker or Implantable Defibrillator (ICD): Used for severe arrhythmias.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing palpitations involves long-term healthy habits to keep the heart functioning properly.

Key Prevention Tips:

Follow a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Exercise regularly but avoid overexertion.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Manage anxiety and depression through therapy or relaxation techniques.