What Are Palpitations?

Palpitations (pal-pi-TA-shuns) 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.

Overview

Many things can trigger palpitations, including:

• Strong emotions
• Vigorous physical activity
• Medicines, such as diet pills and decongestants
• Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and illegal drugs
• Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disease or anemia
  (uh-NEE-me-eh)

These factors make the heart beat faster or stronger than usual, or they cause occasional premature (extra) heartbeats. In these situations, the heart is still working normally, and the palpitations are usually harmless.

Sometimes palpitations are symptoms of arrhythmias (ah-RITH-me-ahs). 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.

People can reduce or prevent palpitations by avoiding things that trigger them (such as stress and stimulants) and treating related medical conditions.

Outlook

Palpitations are very common. They usually aren’t serious or harmful, but they can be bothersome. If you have them, your doctor can check to see whether you need treatment or ongoing care.