|
|
|
Key Points
- Palpitations are feelings that your heart is
skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too hard or fast. You may have these
feelings in your chest, throat, or neck. They can occur during activity or even
when you're sitting still or lying down.
- Palpitations are very common. They usually aren't
serious or harmful, but they can be bothersome.
- Strong emotions, vigorous physical activity,
medicines, stimulants, and some medical conditions can cause harmless
palpitations.
- Sometimes, palpitations are symptoms of
arrhythmias.
Arrhythmias are problems with the speed or rhythm of the heartbeat. Some
arrhythmias are signs of heart disease, including
heart
attack,
heart
failure,
heart
valve problems, or
heart
muscle problems. However, less than half of the people who have
palpitations have arrhythmias.
- In some cases, the cause of palpitations can't be
found.
- Symptoms of palpitations include feelings that
your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating to hard or fast.
Palpitations may be a sign of a serious heart problem if you also feel dizzy or
confused; are lightheaded, think you may faint, or do faint; have trouble
breathing; have pain, pressure, or tightness in your chest, jaw, or arm; feel
short of breath; or have unusual sweating.
- Your doctor may have already told you that your
palpitations are harmless. However, if they become very noticeable or
bothersome, you should see your doctor again. You also should see your doctor
if they get worse, begin to happen more often, or occur with other
symptoms.
- Your doctor will want to find out whether your
palpitations are harmless or related to a heart problem. To do this, he or she
may ask about your symptoms and medical history, do a physical exam, and order
several basic tests.
- Treatment depends on the cause of the
palpitations. Most palpitations are harmless and go away on their own. Your
doctor may advise you to avoid things that trigger them. If you have a medical
condition that causes palpitations, your doctor will treat you for that
condition.
- You can take steps to prevent palpitations.
Reduce anxiety and stress in your life. Avoid or limit stimulants. Treat
medical conditions that may lead to palpitations.
|
|
Living With Links
|