I have heart palpitations—What should I do?
Heart palpitations are sensations of an irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat. You might feel like your heart is:
- Fluttering
- Racing
- Pounding
- Skipping a beat
- Beating too fast
- Beating too slow
Types of Palpitations:
- Tachycardia: This refers to a rapid heart rate, typically defined as a resting heart rate above 100 beats per minute.
- Ventricular Extrasystoles (PVCs): These are extra heartbeats that originate from the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). They can feel like a "skipped beat" followed by a strong thump.
Possible Causes of Palpitations:
- Stress and Anxiety:
- Stress, anxiety, and strong emotions can trigger the release of hormones that increase heart rate.
- Caffeine and Stimulants:
- Caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants can also increase heart rate and cause palpitations.
- Dehydration:
- Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can affect heart rhythm.
- Medications:
- Certain medications, such as decongestants, asthma medications, and some over-the-counter drugs, can cause heart palpitations as a side effect.
- Medical Conditions:
- In some cases, palpitations can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions, such as:
- Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid gland
- Heart disease: Coronary artery disease, heart failure, heart valve problems
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms
- Iron deficiency anemia
When to See a Doctor:
- Frequent or prolonged palpitations
- Palpitations accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness
- Palpitations that occur after a recent heart attack or surgery
While often triggered by benign factors, heart palpitations can sometimes indicate underlying heart problems. Here are some common causes:
- Lifestyle Factors:
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress, anxiety, and panic attacks can significantly trigger palpitations.
- Strenuous Exercise: Intense physical exertion can cause temporary heart rate increases, which may feel like palpitations.
- Caffeine and Stimulants: Caffeine, nicotine (in tobacco products), and other stimulants can overstimulate the heart and cause palpitations.
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can affect heart rhythm and cause palpitations.
- Dehydration: Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can disrupt heart rhythm.
- Hormonal Changes:
- Pregnancy: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can affect heart rate and rhythm.
- Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can also contribute to palpitations.
- Medications:
- Certain medications, such as:
- Bronchodilators: Used to treat asthma
- Decongestants: Found in cold and allergy medications
- Stimulants: Used to treat ADHD
- Some antidepressants: Can cause palpitations as a side effect.
- Always consult your doctor about potential side effects of any new medication.
- Underlying Medical Conditions:
- Heart Disease:
- Coronary Artery Disease: Narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the heart.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation.
- Heart Failure: Weakening of the heart muscle.
- Thyroid Disorders:
- Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid gland.
- Anemia: Iron deficiency anemia can cause palpitations.
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Imbalances in minerals like potassium or magnesium can affect heart rhythm.
Preventing Heart Palpitations:
- Healthy Lifestyle:
- Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, saturated fats, and trans fats.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake or abstain entirely.
- Smoking Cessation: Quit smoking completely.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
- Stress Management:
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or tai chi.
- Stress-Reducing Activities: Engage in activities that help you relax and de-stress, such as spending time in nature, listening to music, or pursuing hobbies.
- Medication Review:
- Consult with your doctor: If you are taking any medications that may cause palpitations as a side effect, discuss potential alternatives or dosage adjustments with your doctor.
- Regular Checkups:
- Consult a healthcare professional: If you have a history of heart disease or experience frequent or severe palpitations, schedule a consultation with a cardiologist or your primary care physician for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.