Palpitations in children

Overview

Palpitations are the feeling that your child's heart is beating unusually fast, hard, or skipping a beat. It is often described as a fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest. In children, these sensations are usually harmless and go away on their own.

Yes, palpitations are quite common in children. Most children experience them at some point, and they are usually nothing to worry about.

Palpitations can affect children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. They are more common in older children and teens, especially during times of stress or after consuming caffeine.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sensation of a fluttering or pounding heart
• Heartbeat that feels faster than usual
• Heartbeat that skips a beat or feels irregular

Symptoms in children

• Children may say their heart is 'racing' or 'jumping'
• They might feel a sudden thump in the chest
• Some children describe it as a fish flopping in their chest

Causes

Main causes

• Anxiety or stress
• Caffeine (from soda, energy drinks, tea, chocolate)
• Fever or dehydration
• Exercise or excitement
• Rarely, heart rhythm problems like supraventricular tachycardia

Risk factors

• Being a teenager
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Drinking caffeine or energy drinks
• Having a family history of heart rhythm problems
• Having a fever or illness

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child faints or has chest pain with palpitations, seek emergency care
• If palpitations are accompanied by trouble breathing or bluish skin, call emergency number

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment if your child has frequent palpitations that worry you
• If palpitations interfere with daily activities or sleep
• If you notice a pattern, such as palpitations with exercise

Diagnosis

The doctor will start by asking about your child's symptoms, when they happen, and any triggers. They will listen to the heart and might order some tests to check the heart's rhythm and structure.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – a quick, painless test that records the heart's electrical activity
• Holter monitor – a portable ECG worn for 24 to 48 hours to catch palpitations as they happen
• Event monitor – a device used for longer periods to record the heart when symptoms occur
• Echocardiogram – an ultrasound of the heart to check its structure
• Blood tests – to check for underlying causes like anaemia or thyroid problems

What to expect at your appointment

Most tests are painless and take place in a doctor's office or hospital clinic. Your child can usually go home the same day. The doctor will explain the results and discuss next steps.

Treatment

Treatment depends on whether there is an underlying cause. For the majority of children with harmless palpitations, no treatment is needed other than reassurance and avoiding triggers.

Self-care at home

• Encourage your child to stay calm during an episode – slow breathing can help
• Reduce or cut out caffeine from drinks and foods
• Make sure your child stays well hydrated, especially during illness or exercise
• Encourage regular sleep and manage stress

Medical treatments

If palpitations are due to an underlying heart rhythm problem, the doctor may recommend medication or a procedure to correct the rhythm. These are tailored to your child's specific condition and are only used when needed.

Living with this condition

Most children with occasional palpitations can lead a normal, active life. The key is to identify and avoid triggers, and to know when to seek help.

Lifestyle tips

• Help your child avoid energy drinks and excessive caffeine
• Encourage regular physical activity as tolerated
• Teach relaxation techniques for anxiety or stress

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet and regular exercise are important for heart health. Unless advised otherwise by a doctor, your child can participate in sports and activities.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Palpitations can be scary for a child and may cause anxiety. Reassure them that these feelings are common and often not dangerous. If anxiety is a big factor, consider speaking with a child psychologist or counsellor.

Prevention

Not all palpitations can be prevented, but avoiding common triggers like caffeine and managing stress can reduce how often they happen.

Complications

If left untreated

• Rarely, underlying heart rhythm problems can lead to fainting or, in very rare cases, cardiac arrest
• If palpitations are caused by an overactive thyroid, untreated thyroid problems can affect growth and development

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of children, palpitations are harmless and go away on their own with time. Even when there is an underlying condition, treatments are very effective and children can lead full, active lives.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.