What are heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations are
the sensation of your heart suddenly "pounding" or "racing." They
may feel like the feeling you get when you are exercising or they
may feel like a flutter, a skipped or extra beat, or a heartbeat
that simply does not feel normal. Palpitations can occur at any
time -- while you are simply sitting or moving about normally as
you perform your daily activities.
Palpitations can be felt in your chest, throat, or neck.
Although heart palpitations may be startling, they may or may not
be related to an abnormal heart rate and are often not serious or
harmful.
What causes heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations
may be caused by:
- Emotions, such as anxiety, stress, fear or panic
- Exercise
- Pregnancy
- Caffeine found in coffee, teas, chocolate, colas, some sports
drinks and foods
- Certain medical conditions: overactive thyroid, low blood
sugar, low potassium level, low oxygen level or low carbon dioxide
level in the blood, fever, anemia, dehydration, loss of blood,
shock
- Certain medications: asthma inhalers and decongestants, beta
blockers (taken for high blood pressure or heart disease), thyroid
and antiarrhythmic medications, and some over-the-counter
medications that act as stimulants, such as cough and cold
medicines, and some herbal or nutritional supplements (such as ma
huang or ephedra)
- Illegal street drugs: cocaine and amphetamines (speed)
- Nicotine found in tobacco products
Symptoms of palpitations are more likely to be related to an
abnormal heart rhythm if you have:
- Significant risk factors for heart disease
- Existing heart disease
- Known heart rhythm problems - also called irregular
heartbeats or arrhythmias (a change in rhythm of your
heartbeat)
- Abnormal heart valves
Are palpitations the sign of a more serious health
problem?
Palpitations may or may not be related to a
serious health problem. Palpitations may be a sign of a more
serious health problem if you also feel:
- Dizzy
- Confused
- Light-headed
- Pain, pressure, or tightness in your chest, neck, jaw, arms, or
upper back
Or if you:
- Have trouble breathing
- Pass out while experiencing the palpitations
If you experience these symptoms you should call your
doctor's office right away.
How are palpitations diagnosed?
It may be difficult
for your doctor to determine the cause of your palpitations,
especially if you are not experiencing them during your office
visit. In some cases, a cause of the palpitations may not be found.
Despite these obstacles, your doctor will review your medical
history, ask you about your symptoms, review any medications and
herbal products you may be taking, and ask you about your diet.
Your doctor will also listen to your heart and lungs.