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Palpitations are the sensation of feeling your own heart beat. It may feel like your heart is pounding, fluttering, racing, or skipping a beat. Most of the time, palpitations are harmless and go away on their own, but they can sometimes be a sign of a heart condition that needs attention.
Key facts
Yes, palpitations are extremely common. Most people experience them at some point in their lives.
Palpitations can affect anyone, but they are more common in people who are anxious, consume stimulants like caffeine or nicotine, have anemia or thyroid problems, or have a family history of heart rhythm issues.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they happen, and your medical history. They will listen to your heart and may order tests to see if your heart rhythm is normal.
Treatment depends on the cause. Many palpitations do not need any treatment. If a lifestyle factor is to blame, making changes may stop them. If a heart rhythm problem is found, your doctor may suggest medication or a procedure. Always follow your doctor’s advice.
Most people with harmless palpitations can live a normal life. It helps to know your triggers and avoid them. If you have a diagnosed heart rhythm condition, follow your treatment plan and attend regular check-ups.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit stimulants like caffeine and energy drinks. Regular moderate exercise is good for heart health. If exercise triggers your palpitations, talk to your doctor before continuing.
Not all palpitations can be prevented, but you can reduce how often they happen by avoiding known triggers like too much caffeine, stress, and lack of sleep. Staying hydrated and managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure or thyroid disease also helps.
For the vast majority of people, palpitations are not a sign of a dangerous condition and go away on their own or with simple lifestyle changes. Even when a heart rhythm problem is found, treatments are very effective and most people manage well with medication or a procedure. The outlook is generally excellent.
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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.
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 9, 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.
Your doctor will work to find the cause of your palpitations. You may be asked to keep a diary of when they occur, what you were doing, and how long they lasted. Most tests are painless and done in the clinic. If the results are normal, that is reassuring.
If palpitations are caused by an arrhythmia, your doctor may prescribe medications to control your heart rate or rhythm. These are called antiarrhythmic drugs. In some cases, a procedure called catheter ablation may be recommended to correct abnormal electrical pathways in the heart. Always discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider. You should not stop or start any medication without your doctor’s guidance.
Surgery is rarely needed for palpitations. However, for certain arrhythmias that do not respond to medication, a minimally invasive procedure like catheter ablation or, very rarely, implanting a pacemaker may be considered. Your heart specialist will explain if this is an option for you.
Palpitations can cause worry or anxiety, which can actually make them worse. It is important to address any fear you have. If anxiety is a big part of your symptoms, speaking with a mental health professional can help break the cycle.