1. What are heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations are when you suddenly notice your heartbeat. It may feel like your heart is racing, fluttering, skipping beats, or pounding harder than usual. You might feel this in your chest, throat, or neck. Most of the time, they only last a few seconds and are not dangerous.
2. What causes heart palpitations?
There are many possible causes. Common ones include stress, anxiety, caffeine, lack of sleep, dehydration, strong emotions, or exercise. Certain medicines or supplements can also cause them. In some cases, an irregular heart rhythm (called an arrhythmia) or other heart problem may be the cause.
3. Are heart palpitations dangerous?
Usually, no. Most palpitations are harmless and go away on their own. But if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting with your palpitations, you should see a doctor right away. Those could be signs of a more serious heart condition.
4. How do I know if my palpitations are from stress or something serious?
If your palpitations happen during times of stress, anxiety, or after caffeine, they’re probably not dangerous. But if they happen often, last a long time, or happen with other symptoms like chest pain or fainting, your doctor should check your heart to be sure.
5. Can what I eat or drink cause heart palpitations?
Yes. Drinks that contain caffeine (like coffee, tea, soda, or energy drinks) can make your heart race. Alcohol and foods high in sugar or processed ingredients can sometimes trigger palpitations too. Staying hydrated and eating balanced meals can help.
6. Can exercise cause heart palpitations?
Exercise makes your heart beat faster, which is normal. But if your heart starts racing too much, feels irregular, or you feel dizzy or short of breath during exercise, stop and rest. If it keeps happening, talk to your doctor.
7. How are heart palpitations diagnosed?
Your doctor may ask when they happen and what they feel like. They might listen to your heart or order tests such as:
An EKG (electrocardiogram): checks your heart’s electrical activity.
A Holter monitor: a small device you wear for 24–48 hours to record your heartbeat.
An echocardiogram: an ultrasound of your heart.
These tests help find out if your palpitations are harmless or caused by a heart condition.
8. What can I do to prevent heart palpitations?
You can help prevent them by:
Limiting caffeine and alcohol
Managing stress with deep breathing, yoga, or walks
Getting enough sleep
Drinking plenty of water
Avoiding smoking
Exercising regularly (with your doctor’s approval)
9. Can heart palpitations be treated?
If your palpitations are caused by stress or lifestyle factors, simple changes—like reducing caffeine or managing anxiety—usually help. If a heart condition or irregular rhythm is found, your doctor might prescribe medicine or other treatments to control your heartbeat.
10. When should I see a doctor about heart palpitations?
See a doctor if you have:
Palpitations that happen often or last more than a few minutes
Chest pain or pressure
Dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath
A family history of heart disease
Even if you think it’s “nothing,” it’s always smart to get checked—just to be safe.
11. Can dehydration cause heart palpitations?
Yes. When you don’t drink enough water, your body loses fluids and electrolytes (like potassium and magnesium) that help your heart beat normally. This can make your heartbeat feel faster or uneven. Staying hydrated—especially in hot weather or during exercise—can help prevent palpitations.
12. Can lack of sleep cause heart palpitations?
Yes. When you don’t get enough rest, your body releases stress hormones that can make your heart race or flutter. Try to get 7–9 hours of sleep each night to help your heart and body stay calm and balanced.
13. Can hormones cause heart palpitations?
They can. Hormone changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can affect your heart rate. For example, many women notice palpitations during hot flashes or hormonal shifts. If they’re frequent or bothersome, your doctor can help you manage them safely.
14. Do heart palpitations happen more with certain medical conditions?
Yes. People with thyroid problems, anemia (low iron), low blood sugar, or heart disease can experience palpitations more often. That’s why it’s important to tell your doctor about all your symptoms, not just the fluttering feeling.
15. Can medications cause heart palpitations?
Some medicines—like cold medicines, asthma inhalers, or diet pills—contain ingredients that can speed up your heart rate. If you notice palpitations after starting a new medication, don’t stop taking it on your own. Call your doctor to ask about safer options.
16. Can heart palpitations happen while lying down?
Yes. Some people notice palpitations more when lying down, especially on their left side. That position can make you more aware of your heartbeat. If it happens often, try relaxing before bed and avoid caffeine or large meals late at night.
17. Can heart palpitations wake you up at night?
They can. If your heart starts racing or fluttering during sleep, it might wake you up. This could be due to anxiety, nightmares, sleep apnea, or even certain foods or alcohol before bed. If it happens regularly, a doctor may recommend a sleep study or heart monitor.
18. Can anxiety or panic attacks make palpitations worse?
Yes. When you’re anxious, your body releases adrenaline—the “fight or flight” hormone—which makes your heart beat faster. This can create a cycle where you feel your heart racing, then worry more, which makes it beat even faster. Calming techniques like slow breathing or gentle exercise can help break the cycle.
19. Are heart palpitations common in teenagers?
Yes. Teens can have palpitations from stress, caffeine, energy drinks, or even growing bodies adjusting to hormones. Most are harmless, but if they happen often or cause dizziness or chest pain, it’s best to see a doctor.
20. Can I live a normal life with heart palpitations?
In most cases, yes! Many people have occasional palpitations and live healthy, active lives. The key is to find and manage your triggers, take care of your heart with good habits, and follow your doctor’s advice.
Schedule your appointment today with Prime Heart and Vascular and let us help you keep your heart strong and healthy.
