Palpitations are the sensations of the heart beating fast, fluttering or pounding. They are usually benign and may be triggered by stress, exercise, use of energizers, caffeine, and some medications. They are rarely secondary to a medical condition.
Palpitations may feel like the heart is beating too fast, suddenly changing rhythm, fluttering rapidly, pounding, or skipping beats. They can be felt in the neck and chest and occur both at rest and during exercise.
When should I consult a physician?
In general, if palpitations are occasional, of short duration and are not associated with other symptoms, a specialized evaluation is not necessary. If you have a history of heart disease, if palpitations occur very frequently, have prolonged duration, limit physical activity, alter the quality of life or generate chest pain, loss of consciousness, shortness of breath or severe dizziness, it is necessary to consult a specialist.
What are the causes?
The most common causes are:
- Response to strong emotions, stress, anxiety or panic attacks.
- Depression
- Strenuous physical activity
- Stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, amphetamines, cold medications containing pseudoephedrine
- Fever
- Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause)
- Thyroid disorders
- Cardiac arrhythmias
At SINCRO we are trained to diagnose and treat you. Schedule your appointment