preventing palpitations

Overview

Heart palpitations are when your heart suddenly feels like it is racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping a beat. They are often harmless and pass quickly, but they can sometimes be a sign of a heart problem.

Yes. Most people feel heart palpitations at some point in their lives.

Palpitations can happen at any age. They are more likely in people who are anxious, pregnant, or have an overactive thyroid.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A racing or pounding heartbeat
• A fluttering feeling in the chest
• Skipped beats or a feeling that your heart stopped briefly
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Mild shortness of breath

Symptoms in children

• A 'jumping' heart feeling
• Dizziness after exercise or excitement
• Unusual tiredness or pale skin

Symptoms in older adults

• A fluttering or racing pulse
• Feeling faint or dizzy
• Sudden confusion (especially with a fast heart rate)

Causes

Main causes

• Strong emotions like stress, fear, or anxiety
• Caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine
• Lack of sleep or exhaustion
• Dehydration or low blood sugar
• Fever or illness
• Hormone changes related to pregnancy or menopause
• Low potassium or magnesium levels

Risk factors

• Anxiety or panic disorder
• Heart conditions, such as arrhythmias or heart valve problems
• Overactive thyroid or low blood sugar
• Some cold and asthma medicines (always check with your doctor)
• Use of stimulant drugs

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your local emergency number right away if you have chest pain, faint, or have severe shortness of breath with palpitations.
• Go to the nearest emergency department if your palpitations are very fast and do not settle within a few minutes.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you get palpitations often, they last a long time, or they worry you, make a routine appointment with your doctor.
• If you have risk factors for heart disease (like high blood pressure or diabetes) and start getting palpitations, see your doctor.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and check for triggers. They may listen to your heart, feel your pulse, and ask about your medical and family history.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) — a quick, painless test that records your heart's rhythm
• Holter monitor — a small portable device you wear for a day or two to record your heart continuously
• Blood tests — to check for anaemia, thyroid problems, or electrolyte imbalances
• Echocardiogram — an ultrasound of your heart to check its structure and function

What to expect at your appointment

You may be asked to keep a diary of your palpitations, noting when they happen and what you were doing. This helps your doctor identify what triggers them.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. If your palpitations are harmless, you may only need to avoid your triggers. If an underlying condition is found, that condition will be treated.

Self-care at home

• Cut back on caffeine and energy drinks
• Limit or avoid alcohol and stop smoking
• Drink enough water through the day
• Get enough sleep and manage stress
• Practice slow breathing or relaxation techniques

Medical treatments

If a heart rhythm problem is found, your doctor may recommend medicines to control your heart rate or rhythm. They may also treat conditions like an overactive thyroid or anaemia. Always follow your doctor's advice and never change your treatment without talking to them.

When is surgery considered?

In a few cases, if a serious rhythm problem is diagnosed, a procedure called catheter ablation may be offered. This uses heat or cold energy to correct the faulty electrical signal. You and your doctor will decide together if this is right for you.

Living with this condition

Keep a simple log of when palpitations happen, how long they last, and what you were doing. This can help you spot your own triggers and give your doctor useful information.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active but don't push too hard
• Learn to manage stress with relaxation or mindfulness
• Avoid caffeine, energy drinks, and smoking
• Eat regular meals and stay hydrated

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. Regular gentle exercise such as walking or swimming strengthens your heart. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise programme if you have any heart condition.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Worrying about your heart can make palpitations worse. If anxiety is a factor, consider speaking to a counsellor or therapist. You are not alone, and support is available.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent palpitations, but you can reduce them by avoiding common triggers and keeping a healthy heart.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine that prevents palpitations. Staying up to date with recommended vaccines can help protect you from infections that might strain your heart.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for palpitations. Your doctor may recommend tests if your symptoms suggest a heart concern.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a serious heart rhythm problem is left untreated, it could lead to fainting or falls.
• It could raise your risk of stroke or heart failure over time.

Long-term outlook

For most people, palpitations are harmless and can be managed with simple lifestyle changes. Even if an underlying cause is found, many types can be treated successfully. With the right care, you can live a full and active life.

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