The human heart beats approximately 100,000 times daily, and for the most part, this remarkable function goes unnoticed. However, this changes when one experiences heart palpitations.
Heart palpitations can be alarming for many individuals. They manifest as sensations that heighten your awareness of your heartbeat, leading to concerns about potential health issues.
Dr. Kunal Patel and the team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute are available to assist you. The majority of heart palpitations are benign, and gaining an understanding of their characteristics and the various reasons they may occur is essential for effective management.
Characteristics of heart palpitations
Heart palpitations are often described in several ways. They may present as a fluttering or racing feeling in the chest, as if the heart is beating excessively hard or rapidly. At times, individuals may perceive their heart as having skipped beats or as if it is flipping within the chest.
These sensations can be felt in the chest, throat, or neck. Palpitations may last for a few seconds or persist for several minutes, occurring during physical activity or periods of rest.
It is crucial to recognize that the experience of palpitations can differ significantly among individuals. Some may encounter them sporadically, while others may experience them more frequently. The intensity of these sensations can also vary, with some individuals barely noticing them and others finding them quite distressing.
Causes of heart palpitations
Experiencing heart palpitations can understandably raise concerns regarding heart health. Nevertheless, there are numerous potential causes, ranging from benign to more serious underlying conditions.
Common triggers for heart palpitations include:
Stress and anxiety
Emotional stress, panic attacks, and anxiety can provoke palpitations, as the body reacts to these stimuli with an elevated heart rate.Stimulants
Consuming caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or recreational drugs can cause palpitations because they stimulate your heart rate.
Exercise
Physical activity naturally increases your heart rate, which can sometimes cause palpitations, particularly if you aren’t used to regular exercise.
Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal imbalances can all lead to palpitations because fluctuating hormone levels have a direct effect on your heart rate.
Medications
Certain medications, like decongestants, asthma inhalers, and some antidepressants, can cause palpitations as a side effect.
Medical conditions
Palpitations can be associated with medical conditions like hyperthyroidism, low blood sugar, anemia, dehydration, and heart-related issues like arrhythmias or heart disease.
When to go to the doctor for heart palpitations
Most heart palpitations are harmless — but if you’re concerned about your heart health, we recommend scheduling a consultation. Dr. Patel and our team can evaluate your heart and your symptoms to determine if medical treatment is necessary.
There are some instances when heart palpitations could be a sign of something more serious. You should always seek medical care if you experience palpitations along with any of the following symptoms:
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or fainting
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Plus, if you have a history of heart disease or risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, it's a good idea to discuss any palpitations with your doctor. We can help determine if further evaluation or testing is needed to rule out any serious conditions.
Heart palpitations can be alarming, but understanding what they feel like and when to seek medical advice can help you feel more confident. Schedule a consultation and learn more at NJ Cardiovascular Institute in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey