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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 8, 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.
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.
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.
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.