WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What are palpitations? Palpitations are fast, forceful heartbeats in an irregular rhythm. You may feel like your heart races, jumps, throbs, or flutters. You may feel extra beats, no beats for a short time, or skipped beats. Palpitations may be frightening, but are usually not a serious problem. It is normal to have skipped heartbeats from time to time. Palpitations can be caused by an electrolyte (mineral) imbalance, heart disease, or heart damage. What increases my risk for palpitations? - Anxiety, stress, or lack of sleep
- Exercise
- Medicines, such as diet pills, certain cold and allergy medicines, and herbal supplements such as ginseng
- Caffeine or nicotine
- Pregnancy
- Medical conditions, such has dehydration, low blood sugar level, or anemia
How are palpitations diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will listen to your heart with a stethoscope and ask about your symptoms. You may also need any of the following: - Blood and urine tests will show the levels of electrolytes in your body and your heart function.
- An EKG test records your heart rhythm and how fast your heart beats. It is used to check for heart damage. You may also need to wear a Holter monitor while you do your usual activities. A Holter monitor is a portable EKG that you may wear for 24 to 48 hours. .
- An echocardiogram is a type of ultrasound. Sound waves are used to show the structure and function of your heart.
- An exercise stress test helps healthcare providers see the changes that take place in your heart during exercise. It checks for blockages in the arteries. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about a stress test.
How are palpitations treated? You usually do not need treatment unless you have a heart condition. You may be given medicine to strengthen or control your heartbeat. How can I help prevent more palpitations? - Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Healthy foods will help keep your electrolytes balanced and decrease your risk for palpitations. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.
- Drink liquids as directed. Liquids can prevent dehydration and decrease your risk for palpitations. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars may damage your heart and blood vessels. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
- Exercise as directed. Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you.
When should I call 911? - You have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
- Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest that lasts longer than 5 minutes or returns
- Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat, especially with chest pain or trouble breathing
- You have weakness or numbness in your arm, leg, or face (may be on only one side of your body).
- You are confused and have trouble speaking.
- You have a severe headache.
- You cannot see out of one or both of your eyes.
- You feel too dizzy to stand.
When should I seek immediate care? - Your palpitations happen more often or get more intense.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have new or worsening swelling in your feet or ankles.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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