What are heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations are feelings of fluttering, pounding, or a rapid heartbeat. Heart palpitations can be triggered by exercise, stress, alcohol, certain medications, or certain medical conditions.
Heart palpitations can be concerning, but they’re typically not serious. However, in some cases, palpitations can be an indication of a more serious heart condition, such as arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) or heart disease that might require medical treatment.
How do I know if I have a heart palpitation?
If you have a heart palpitation, you might feel like your heart is skipping beats, beating too fast, pounding, flip-flopping, or fluttering rapidly like the wings of a butterfly in flight. You might feel heart palpitations in your neck or throat in addition to your chest.
Heart palpitations can occur when you’re resting or while you’re physically active.
When should I see a doctor about my heart palpitations?
You should see Dr. Chavira about your palpitations if you have:
- A history of heart disease
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness, lightheaded, feel like you may pass out, or actually pass out
- Palpitations that are persistent, worsening, or lasting longer than a few seconds
Dr. Chavira might recommend heart monitoring tests to determine if your palpitations are caused by a more serious condition.
Your personal consultation is your chance to ask questions and address any concerns you might have about your heart health.
What causes heart palpitations?
The cause of heart palpitations isn’t always definitive. Common causes include:
- Many different types of heart disease
- Too much alcohol, coffee, or recreational drug use (cocaine, amphetamines)
- Strenuous exercise
- Strong emotional responses, such as anxiety, panic attacks, or stress
- Too much or not enough thyroid hormone
What are the treatments for heart palpitations?
Some heart palpitations don’t require treatment. If you have a heart condition or more frequent heart palpitations, Dr. Chavira might recommend various treatments depending on your individual preferences, medical and family history, and your current health.
Dr. Chavira recommends ways to avoid factors that might be triggering your palpitations. Dr. Chavira offers effective treatment options, including:
- Stress management
- Nutritional counseling
- Exercise guidance
- Medications
- Medical procedures when necessary
The right lifestyle changes can enhance your heart health and your overall wellness and prevent future heart palpitations from occurring.
If you’re dealing with heart palpitations, call to schedule a complete exam with Dr. Alberto Chavira or request an appointment online.
