Palpitations

Palpitations are an abnormal awareness of the heartbeat, which can feel like a fluttering or racing sensation in the chest. While palpitations are often harmless, they can also be a sign of an underlying heart condition. If you experience palpitations, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Some of the most common causes of palpitations include:

• Anxiety and stress: Palpitations can be caused by anxiety or stress, as these conditions can increase the release of adrenaline in the body, which can affect the heart rate.
• Caffeine and other stimulants: Consuming caffeine, nicotine, or other stimulants can cause palpitations by stimulating the heart.
• Medications: Some medications, such as beta-blockers or thyroid medication, can cause palpitations as a side effect.
• Heart rhythm disorders: Palpitations can also be caused by heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia.
• Structural heart problems: Rarely, palpitations can be a sign of a structural problem with the heart, such as a heart valve disorder.

If you experience palpitations, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Your healthcare provider may perform tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, to evaluate the heart’s rhythm and function. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the palpitations and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures such as ablation therapy.

In addition to seeking medical attention, there are steps you can take to help prevent palpitations. This includes avoiding triggers such as caffeine or other stimulants, managing stress and anxiety, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet.

In summary, palpitations are an abnormal awareness of the heartbeat and can have many different causes. If you experience palpitations, seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Taking steps to prevent palpitations, such as avoiding triggers and managing stress, can also help reduce your risk of experiencing this symptom in the future.