Heart Palpitations
Heart palpitations are a relatively common experience, with many people experiencing them at some point in their lives. While they can be alarming and uncomfortable, they are often not a cause for concern. However, if heart palpitations are frequent or persistent, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and ensure appropriate treatment if necessary.
What are the symptoms of heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations can cause a range of physical sensations and emotional reactions. Common physical symptoms of heart palpitations include:
- Racing, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat
- Skipped or missed heartbeats
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
In addition to these physical symptoms, heart palpitations can also have a significant emotional impact. Many people feel anxious, scared, or panicky when they experience heart palpitations, especially if they are sudden or severe. The emotional impact of heart palpitations can exacerbate physical symptoms and make it more difficult to manage the condition.
It is important to note that while heart palpitations can be uncomfortable and distressing, they are often not a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. However, if heart palpitations are frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and ensure appropriate treatment if necessary.
What causes heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations are the sensation of an irregular or rapid heartbeat. They can feel like the heart is racing, fluttering, pounding, or skipping a beat. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Caffeine consumption
- Alcohol consumption
- Certain medications
- Medical conditions affecting the heart
What types of heart palpitations are there?
There are several types of heart palpitations, each with its own causes and symptoms. Some of the most common types of heart palpitations include:
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)
This occurs when the heart’s ventricles contract too early, which can cause a sensation of a skipped heartbeat.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
This is a type of arrhythmia characterized by a rapid, irregular heartbeat that can cause heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
This is a condition where the heart beats rapidly, causing heart palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
This occurs when the heart’s ventricles beat too fast and can cause symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, and fainting.
Sinus Tachycardia
This is a normal increase in heart rate that occurs during exercise, stress, or excitement. However, if it is prolonged or accompanied by other symptoms, it can cause heart palpitations.
Bradycardia
This is a slow heart rate, which can cause heart palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue.
Other arrhythmias
There are many other types of arrhythmias that can cause heart palpitations, such as atrial flutter, premature atrial contractions, and junctional rhythms.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the type of heart palpitations and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How are heart palpitations diagnosed?
Heart palpitations can be diagnosed through several methods, including:
Physical exam
A healthcare provider may perform a physical exam to check for any signs of heart problems, such as an irregular heartbeat or heart murmur.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
This is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart and can help identify any abnormalities in heart rhythm.
Holter monitor
This is a portable device that is worn for 24-48 hours to continuously monitor heart activity and record any abnormalities.
Event monitor
This is a portable device that is worn for several weeks or months to record heart activity during an episode of palpitations.
Echocardiogram
This is a test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart and can help identify any structural abnormalities.
Blood tests
Blood tests may be ordered to check for any underlying conditions that may be causing heart palpitations, such as anemia or thyroid problems.
How do we treat heart palpitations?
The treatment for heart palpitations depends on the underlying cause of the palpitations. In some cases, no treatment is required if the palpitations are not causing significant symptoms or if they are related to a temporary situation, such as stress or anxiety.
If there is an underlying medical condition that is causing the palpitations, several medications are available to treat heart rhythm disorders and other conditions that can cause heart palpitations. These medications may include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, anti-arrhythmic drugs, or blood thinners.
In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the palpitations. This may include procedures such as catheter ablation or surgery. If the palpitations are related to an underlying medical condition, such as anemia or thyroid problems, treating the underlying condition may help reduce the frequency and severity of the palpitations.
Lifestyle changes can often help reduce the frequency and severity of heart palpitations. This may include reducing stress, avoiding triggers such as caffeine or alcohol, and getting regular exercise.
When should I seek medical attention for my heart palpitations?
If you experience occasional heart palpitations that are brief and mild, and they do not cause any significant symptoms, you may not need to seek medical attention.
However, if you experience any of the following, you should consider seeking medical attention:
- Palpitations that last for a long time, occur frequently, or are becoming more severe over time
- Palpitations that are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or other symptoms
- Palpitations that occur during physical activity or exertion
- Palpitations that occur at rest and are not related to stress, anxiety, or other triggers
- Palpitations that occur along with a rapid or irregular heartbeat
In some cases, heart palpitations can be a sign of a serious medical condition, such as an arrhythmia or heart valve problem. If you are unsure whether your palpitations require medical attention, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your palpitations and recommend appropriate treatment.
Where can I go for help with heart palpitations?
If you are having heart palpitations, you can get help at HeartWest, the largest cardiology group in the western and northwestern corridors of Melbourne, with 4 major locations and 3 satellite sites.
At HeartWest, our qualified experts will provide you with the best cardiology care. You will experience nothing but professionalism, care and courtesy; from your first interaction with our staff, to going through tests, procedures and consultations.
Our cardiologists have expertise in all fields of adult cardiology, including;
Contact us for efficient and affordable specialist heart care services.
