Heart Palpitations: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment

Heart palpitations are a common experience that can be caused by a variety of factors. They can be described as a fluttering, racing, or pounding sensation in the chest. While heart palpitations can be alarming, they are not always a sign of a serious health problem.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of heart palpitations, how to identify them, and when to see a doctor. We will also provide tips on how to manage heart palpitations and reduce their frequency.

What are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are a prevalent occurrence characterised by the perception of an abnormal or irregular heartbeat. Palpitations are generally a transitory symptom and can manifest as a rapid, slow, or irregular rhythm. In some cases, individuals may also experience a similar sensation in the chest area, directly associated with the heartbeat, rather than solely encountering a racing heart.

If you happen to experience heart palpitations, it is important that you promptly seek medical attention from a medical practitioner. The practitioner will ask you to undergo a comprehensive test. For further clarity, your doctor might ask you to consult a

cardiologist. The cardiologist will look at the results of the ECG and heart monitors, and determine if the palpitations are safe.

Who Does Heart Palpitations Affect?

Palpitations are a prevalent symptom that often leads patients to seek consultation with general practitioners, cardiologists, or emergency healthcare services. Individuals from these five groups may experience palpitations due to various reasons, including cardiac arrhythmias, heart diseases, psychosomatic disorders, systemic diseases, or the effects of medical and recreational drugs. The current approach to managing patients with palpitations primarily relies on the physician's clinical expertise.

How Common Are Heart Palpitations?

Palpitations are a prevalent symptom that may indicate the presence of cardiac arrhythmias or serve as a somatic complaint in anxiety disorders. Interestingly, these palpitations can also be experienced by patients who do not have either of these conditions. It is worth noting that a significant number of patients with palpitations do not exhibit any underlying psychiatric or cardiologic causes.

What Are The Symptoms of Heart Palpitations?

Palpitations are generally considered to be non-critical symptoms that are rarely caused by clinically significant arrhythmias. However, they can lead to anxiety, depression, and a decrease in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Symptoms of heart palpitations can manifest in various ways, including a racing or fluttering heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, dizziness or lightheadedness, sweating, and fatigue or weakness. While palpitations are often harmless, they should not be ignored. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying cardiac conditions.

What Causes Heart Palpitations?

Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of heart palpitations:

Cardiac causes: Palpitations may arise from different cardiac arrhythmias, such as bradycardia, tachycardia, premature ventricular and atrial contractions, atrial fibrillation, sick sinus syndromes, advanced atrioventricular block, or ventricular tachycardia.

Psychological causes: Psychological factors play a significant role in the development of palpitations, with anxiety being a prevalent cause. Approximately one-third of all cases can be attributed to psychological factors. It is important to note that panic, stress, or anxiety often act as the underlying triggers for palpitations in a substantial number of patients.

Physical causes: Palpitations can be triggered by various factors, including over-exercising, emotional stress, fever, certain foods, nicotine, and alcohol. Moreover, palpitations can result from the adverse effects of both prescription and over-the-counter medications, substance abuse, hyperthyroidism, severe anaemia, and even pregnancy.

How Long Do Heart Palpitations Last?

The duration of heart palpitations varies depending on the underlying cause. Generally, palpitations can last for a few seconds, minutes, and in some cases, hours. The duration of palpitations can also be influenced by the severity of the condition and the individual's response to treatment. If you experience prolonged periods of heart palpitations, it is always advised to consult a general practitioner who can provide further guidance.

When Do People Get Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations can manifest at various stages of life, affecting individuals in a multitude of ways. Notably, women tend to experience them more frequently, with occurrences observed during adolescence, pregnancy, or menopause, among other instances. Additionally, palpitations can be associated with a range of psychiatric conditions, including poor mental health, anxiety disorders, and panic attacks. Furthermore, it is worth noting that certain medications can trigger palpitations in some individuals.

How are Heart Palpitations Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of heart palpitations can be accomplished through the use of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). In addition, it is recommended to conduct laboratory studies to investigate potential causes such as anaemia, hyperthyroidism, and electrolyte abnormalities. For patients who exhibit concerns related to heart disease, echocardiograms are suggested.

Further diagnostic testing is advised for three specific groups of patients. The first group includes individuals whose initial diagnostic evaluation, consisting of a thorough history, physical examination, and EKG, suggests the presence of an arrhythmia. The second group comprises individuals who are at high risk for developing an arrhythmia. Lastly, patients who remain anxious and seek a specific explanation for their symptoms should also undergo further diagnostic testing.

How Are Heart Palpitations Treated?

Heart palpitations can arise from a variety of factors, and the appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause. A commonly used method to effectively address most types of supraventricular and many types of ventricular tachycardias is radiofrequency ablation.

In cases where heart palpitations stem from supraventricular or premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), or if they are associated with normal sinus rhythm, medication or surgery may be necessary.

To regulate heart rate and reduce the frequency of palpitations, doctors may prescribe medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. These medications have proven to be effective in achieving these goals.

It is important to note that if heart palpitations occur without any accompanying symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. However, when palpitations are experienced alongside symptoms like fainting, uncontrolled arrhythmias, or chest pain, medical intervention becomes imperative.

How to Stop Heart Palpitations?

There are several effective measures you can take to alleviate heart palpitations. These include:

Alleviating stress and anxiety: Employing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can significantly reduce stress levels and help prevent palpitations.

Avoiding stimulants: It is crucial to steer clear of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco as they can stimulate the heart and exacerbate palpitations.

Maintaining proper hydration: Ensuring adequate water intake is essential as dehydration can contribute to palpitations. It is advisable to consume ample fluids throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.

Prioritising sufficient sleep: Inadequate sleep can disrupt the heart's rhythm and trigger palpitations. Strive for a restful sleep of 7-8 hours per night to promote a healthy heart.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively mitigate heart palpitations and promote your overall well-being.

When to Get Immediate Medical Attention?

Knowing when to seek immediate medical attention is critical when you experience heart palpitations. Recognizing the signs that may indicate a medical emergency can help you take prompt action. Here are some key indicators to be aware of:

Chest pain or discomfort: Chest pain or discomfort is a prevalent symptom of a heart attack. If you encounter such sensations alongside palpitations, it is imperative to seek medical attention without delay.

Shortness of breath: Experiencing shortness of breath in conjunction with palpitations could be a red flag for serious heart disease. In such cases, it is crucial to promptly seek medical attention.

Dizziness or lightheadedness: If you feel dizzy or lightheaded alongside palpitations, it may signify a serious heart condition. Seeking immediate medical attention is vital to ensure proper evaluation and treatment.

Fainting: Fainting or feeling on the verge of fainting while experiencing palpitations should not be taken lightly. It could be indicative of a severe heart condition, necessitating immediate medical attention.

Prolonged or frequent palpitations: If you consistently experience prolonged or frequent palpitations, it is essential to seek medical attention. This will enable healthcare professionals to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, heart palpitations can be a distressing experience. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that they do not always indicate a severe medical condition. If you encounter palpitations, it is imperative to consult a doctor to eliminate any potential underlying health issues. Nevertheless, even if your palpitations are caused by an underlying condition, there are often treatment options available to alleviate your symptoms.

Your Aster DM Team

If you find that your heart palpitations are not showing signs of improvement or if you are experiencing prolonged and concerning effects, it is highly recommended that you take the proactive step of scheduling an appointment with a skilled Cardiologist at Aster DM. Our cardiologists prioritise your well-being and provide you with treatment options, as well as the assurance and personalised care necessary to address heart palpitations.

FAQs

What does a heart palpitation feel like?

Experiencing a heart palpitation can be characterised by a fluttering, pounding, or racing sensation in the chest. It may also be described as a feeling of the heart skipping a beat or beating excessively fast. Occasionally, these sensations can be accompanied by momentary dizziness or a sense of breathlessness.

When should I start to worry about heart palpitations?

Although occasional heart palpitations are generally harmless, there are specific circumstances that warrant seeking medical attention. If you experience palpitations along with severe chest pain, fainting, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Furthermore, if you have a history of heart problems, it is advisable to discuss your symptoms with a doctor.

Can stomach gas cause heart palpitations?

Yes, stomach gas or indigestion can sometimes lead to sensations that feel like heart palpitations. The gas can push against the diaphragm and cause discomfort which is mistaken for heart palpitations. However, it's essential to differentiate between actual heart issues and gastrointestinal discomfort. If you're unsure, it's best to consult a medical professional.

Is it normal to have heart palpitations all day?

Experiencing heart palpitations throughout the day might indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. While occasional palpitations can be normal, persistent and frequent palpitations should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate steps to manage them.

Are heart palpitations normal?

Occasional heart palpitations are generally considered normal and can be triggered by factors such as stress, caffeine intake, or physical activity. However, if you're experiencing frequent or severe palpitations, it's advisable to consult a doctor. They can help identify any underlying causes and provide guidance on managing or treating the palpitations.