Heart palpitations feeling
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Heart palpitations are the feeling that your heart is beating too fast, fluttering, pounding, or skipping a beat. It is a common sensation and is usually not a sign of a serious problem, but it can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying condition.
Key facts
- Most heart palpitations are harmless and go away on their own.
- They can be triggered by stress, caffeine, alcohol, or lack of sleep.
- Sometimes they may be a sign of an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or other medical problem.
Yes, heart palpitations are very common. Many people experience them at some point in their lives.
Heart palpitations can affect anyone, including children and older adults. They are more common in people who are anxious, under a lot of stress, or who consume caffeine or alcohol.
Symptoms
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath that does not go away
- Fainting or passing out
- Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
- ⚠Palpitations that last for more than a few minutes or keep coming back
- ⚠Palpitations along with feeling weak, dizzy, or faint (but not passed out)
- ⚠A family history of heart problems or sudden death
Common symptoms
- Feeling like your heart is racing or pounding in your chest or throat
- A fluttering or flip-flopping sensation in your chest
- A feeling that your heart has skipped a beat
- An irregular or fast heartbeat that you can feel
Symptoms in children
- Children may describe a feeling of their heart 'jumping' or 'doing somersaults'
- They might say their heart is beating very fast after exercise or when they are scared
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may notice palpitations more often, especially if they have other health conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease
- They may also experience dizziness or shortness of breath along with the palpitations
Causes
Main causes
- Emotional triggers like stress, anxiety, fear, or panic attacks
- Lifestyle factors such as too much caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or lack of sleep
- Medical conditions like anemia (low red blood cells), thyroid overactivity, low blood sugar, or dehydration
- Certain medications, including some cold and asthma treatments
- Heart conditions such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) or structural heart problems
Risk factors
- Anxiety or panic disorder
- Excessive use of caffeine, alcohol, or recreational drugs
- Dehydration or electrolyte imbalances
- Underlying heart disease or high blood pressure
- Pregnancy (hormonal changes can cause palpitations)
- Certain medications or supplements
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If your palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or severe dizziness, call emergency services immediately.
- If you have a known heart condition and notice new or worsening palpitations, seek urgent medical help.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have palpitations that bother you but are not severe, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss them.
- If you have palpitations along with other symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, or feeling very anxious, see your doctor.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They will listen to your heart and check your pulse. They may also order tests to see if there is an underlying cause.
Tests that may be done
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): a quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart
- Holter monitor: a portable device you wear for 24 to 48 hours to record your heart's rhythm during daily activities
- Event recorder: a device you wear for a longer period, which you activate when you feel palpitations
- Blood tests: to check for anemia, thyroid problems, or electrolyte imbalances
- Echocardiogram: an ultrasound of your heart to look for structural problems
What to expect at your appointment
The process is usually straightforward and not painful. You may be asked to keep a diary of your palpitations – when they happen, what you were doing, and how long they lasted. Your doctor will use this information together with test results to decide if further evaluation or treatment is needed.
Treatment
Treatment for heart palpitations depends on the cause. If they are triggered by lifestyle or emotional factors, avoiding those triggers is often enough. If there is an underlying medical condition, treating that condition usually helps. For some people with frequent or bothersome palpitations due to an arrhythmia, medications or other procedures may be recommended.
Self-care at home
- Reduce or avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
- Get enough sleep and manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Limit or avoid triggers like heavy meals, intense exercise, or certain medications if advised by your doctor
Medical treatments
If an underlying condition such as an overactive thyroid, anemia, or an electrolyte imbalance is found, treating that condition is the first step. For arrhythmias, your doctor may prescribe medications that help control the heart's rhythm or rate. They might also recommend a procedure called catheter ablation to correct the electrical pathways in the heart. All treatments are tailored to the individual, and your doctor will discuss the options with you.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for heart palpitations alone. It may be considered if palpitations are caused by a structural heart problem that requires repair, such as certain valve issues. Your doctor will explain if surgery is an option for your specific situation.
Living with this condition
For most people, heart palpitations do not interfere with daily life. Once you know the cause, you can learn to manage them. If they are harmless, you can usually ignore them. If they are due to a condition, following your treatment plan will help you feel more in control.
Lifestyle tips
- Keep a journal of your palpitations to help identify patterns and triggers
- Learn and practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or mindfulness
- Avoid stimulants such as energy drinks and excessive coffee
- Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking or vaping
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or when exercising. Regular, moderate exercise is generally safe and can help reduce stress, but if you notice palpitations during or after exercise, talk to your doctor about safe activity levels.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Feeling your heart race or skip can be scary and may cause anxiety. This anxiety can, in turn, make palpitations more likely. If you are feeling very anxious or having thoughts of harming yourself, please contact a crisis helpline or emergency services immediately. Talk to your doctor about how you feel – they can connect you with counseling or other support.
Prevention
It is not always possible to prevent heart palpitations, but you can reduce your risk by avoiding common triggers. Managing stress, staying hydrated, and limiting caffeine and alcohol can help. If you have a known condition like anemia or thyroid disease, keeping it under control with your doctor’s help will also reduce palpitations.
Screening programmes
There are no routine screening tests for palpitations in the general population. If you have risk factors or symptoms, your doctor will recommend appropriate tests.
Complications
If left untreated
- If palpitations are caused by an untreated arrhythmia, it can lead to more serious problems like fainting, stroke, or heart failure in rare cases.
- Severe anxiety about palpitations can affect your quality of life, even if the palpitations themselves are harmless.
- In very rare cases, certain types of arrhythmia can cause cardiac arrest (the heart stops beating) without treatment.
Long-term outlook
The outlook for most people with heart palpitations is excellent. When they are harmless, they tend to come and go without causing any problems. Even when an underlying condition is found, it can often be effectively treated so that palpitations go away or become much less bothersome. With proper medical guidance, you can manage palpitations and lead a full, active life.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.