palpitations imaging results waiting

Overview

Palpitations are uncomfortable feelings of your heartbeat—like it's pounding, fluttering, or skipping a beat. Waiting for imaging results after a palpitation episode means your doctor has ordered tests like an ECG or echocardiogram to look at your heart's structure and rhythm. This waiting period can feel stressful, but it's a normal step in understanding what's going on.

Yes, palpitations happen to most people at some point. They are one of the most frequent reasons people visit their GP or emergency department.

Anyone can experience palpitations. They are more common in people who feel anxious, drink caffeine or alcohol, or have certain heart conditions. They can occur at any age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A feeling that your heart is pounding or racing
• A fluttering sensation in your chest or throat
• An irregular heartbeat—like it's skipping a beat
• A pounding sensation in your neck

Symptoms in children

• Children might say their heart is 'racing' or 'jumping'
• They may become pale, sweaty, or complain of chest discomfort
• Some children feel dizzy or lightheaded

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may notice palpitations along with shortness of breath
• They may have dizziness or fainting spells
• Palpitations can be less obvious in older adults, so pay attention to any unexplained weakness

Causes

Main causes

• Anxiety, stress, or panic attacks
• Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or some recreational drugs
• Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause)
• Certain medications (like cold remedies or asthma inhalers)
• Heart conditions (like atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy, or valve problems)

Risk factors

• Being very anxious or having panic disorder
• Drinking a lot of caffeine or alcohol
• Smoking or using nicotine products
• Having other health problems like thyroid disease, anaemia, or low blood sugar
• Family history of heart rhythm problems

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have palpitations with chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath—call emergency services immediately.
• If you have a very fast heartbeat that does not slow down and you feel very unwell.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If palpitations happen often, even if they are mild
• If they come with dizziness or shortness of breath that is not severe
• If you have heart disease risk factors (like high blood pressure, diabetes, or family history of heart problems)

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They will listen to your heart and check your pulse. If they think it's needed, they will order tests to find the cause of your palpitations.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): A quick, painless test that records your heart's electrical activity.
• Holter monitor: A portable ECG you wear for 24 to 48 hours to record your heart rhythm during daily activities.
• Echocardiogram (echo): An ultrasound scan of your heart to check its structure and function.
• Event monitor: A device you wear for a few weeks that you activate when you feel palpitations.
• Blood tests: To check for thyroid problems, anaemia, or other conditions.

What to expect at your appointment

Waiting for imaging results can be hard, but it's a normal part of the process. Your doctor will explain the test results to you, usually within a few days to a couple of weeks. During this time, try to keep a diary of your symptoms—when they happen, what you were doing, and how long they lasted. This can help your doctor make a clear diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for palpitations depends on the cause. Many cases do not need any treatment at all—just reassurance and lifestyle changes. If an underlying condition is found, your doctor will suggest steps to manage it.

Self-care at home

• Reduce or avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress with regular exercise or hobbies.
• Stay hydrated and eat regular meals to avoid low blood sugar.

Medical treatments

If a heart rhythm problem is diagnosed, treatments may include medicines to control heart rate or rhythm, procedures to correct the rhythm (like cardioversion or catheter ablation), or a device like an implantable loop recorder. Your doctor will discuss the best option for you. Do not take any new medicines without your doctor's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for palpitations. It may be considered if a serious heart problem like a blocked artery or a valve issue is found, or if other treatments do not control dangerous symptoms.

Living with this condition

For most people, palpitations do not interfere with daily life. If you have a diagnosed condition, follow your treatment plan and have regular check-ups. Keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active but pace yourself—avoid extreme exertion if you feel palpitations.
• Limit or avoid triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and stress.
• Learn relaxation techniques to manage anxiety.
• Carry a list of your medications and any test results to appointments.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet low in salt and saturated fat supports heart health. Regular, moderate exercise (like walking, swimming, or cycling) is generally safe. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have a known heart condition.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for test results can cause anxiety. Palpitations themselves can make you feel worried, which can make them worse. Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can help. Remember, you are not alone—many people have palpitations and live full, healthy lives.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent palpitations because they can happen for many reasons. However, avoiding triggers like too much caffeine, alcohol, and stress can reduce how often they occur. Keeping your heart healthy with a balanced diet and regular exercise also helps.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for palpitations, but regular check-ups with your GP can help spot risk factors like high blood pressure or thyroid problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• If palpitations are caused by a serious heart rhythm problem, they can lead to fainting, stroke, or heart failure if left untreated.
• Anxiety and worry can get worse if you do not get a proper diagnosis and reassurance.

Long-term outlook

Most palpitations are harmless and go away on their own. Even when there is an underlying cause, treatments are very effective. With the right care, many people manage their symptoms well and live full, active lives. The waiting period for results can feel tough, but it is a positive step toward understanding and taking control of your health.

Find support

International organisations

• British Heart Foundation ↗

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