Heart palpitations are sensations where the heart feels like it’s racing, fluttering, or pounding. Dr. Chetan Rathi explains the heart palpitations causes, symptoms, and treatments of this common condition, helping patients understand when to seek medical attention. Learn about the potential triggers, diagnostic tests, and how to manage palpitations effectively.
What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations are noticeable heartbeats that may feel like your heart is pounding, racing, or fluttering. These sensations can be felt in your chest, throat, or neck. While they are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. Palpitations can occur when you are at rest or active, and they may last only a few seconds or persist for longer periods.
Who Does It Affect?
Heart palpitations can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, certain groups are more likely to experience them. Individuals with anxiety, stress, or panic disorders are prone to palpitations. Pregnant women may also experience palpitations due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume. People with pre-existing heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, are more likely to suffer from palpitations, and those with a history of smoking, alcohol use, or high caffeine intake are also at higher risk.
What are the Symptoms of Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations symptoms vary from person to person but generally include:
- A rapid heartbeat or a feeling of the heart beating too fast
- A fluttering sensation in the chest
- Skipped beats or pauses between heartbeats
- A pounding sensation in the chest, neck, or throat
- Lightheadedness or dizziness (in some cases)
It’s important to note that while these symptoms can be alarming, they are not always indicative of a serious problem. However, if palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or severe dizziness, immediate medical attention is necessary.
What Causes Heart Palpitations?
Several factors can contribute to the onset of heart palpitations. Common palpitations causes include:
- Stress and Anxiety : Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger adrenaline release, leading to palpitations.
- Caffeine and Stimulants : Consuming large amounts of caffeine, nicotine, or certain medications can increase heart rate and cause palpitations.
- Hormonal Changes : Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can affect heart rhythm.
- Medical Conditions : Hyperthyroidism, low blood sugar, anaemia, and dehydration can lead to palpitations.
- Lifestyle Factors : Lack of sleep, dehydration, and extreme physical activity can all contribute to palpitations.
- Food Triggers : Spicy foods, heavy meals, or high sugar intake can lead to heart palpitations after eating.
Understanding these causes can help in managing and potentially preventing palpitations.
How Are Heart Palpitations Treated?
Treatment for heart palpitations depends on the underlying cause. If the palpitations are harmless, no treatment may be necessary. However, if an underlying condition is identified, treatment may include:
- Lifestyle Changes : Reducing stress, avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, and maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce palpitations.
- Medications : Beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic drugs may be prescribed if palpitations are due to an arrhythmia or other heart condition.
- Medical Procedures : In some cases, procedures like catheter ablation may be recommended to treat abnormal heart rhythms.
EP Study (Electrophysiology Study)
An Electrophysiology (EP) Study is a crucial diagnostic procedure used to map the heart’s electrical activity and identify the precise location of abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias. By inserting catheters into the heart through blood vessels, doctors can monitor electrical signals and pinpoint the source of the arrhythmia. This detailed mapping is essential for determining the most effective treatment, such as ablation, to permanently correct the abnormal rhythm. The EP Study plays a vital role in providing a permanent cure for many patients suffering from arrhythmias.
RF Ablation
Radiofrequency Ablation (RF Ablation) is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure that offers a permanent cure for certain types of arrhythmias. During the procedure, a catheter is guided to the heart, where it delivers radiofrequency energy to targeted areas of the heart tissue. This energy creates small scars, blocking the faulty electrical pathways responsible for abnormal heart rhythms. RF Ablation is commonly used to treat conditions such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, and other arrhythmias, providing long-term relief and eliminating the need for ongoing medication.
What Tests Will be Done to Diagnose Heart Palpitations?
To determine the reasons for heart palpitations, a variety of tests may be performed, including:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) : records the heart’s electrical activity to detect irregularities.
- Holter Monitor : A portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours to record the heart’s activity during daily activities.
- Event Monitor : Similar to a Holter monitor but used over a longer period, triggering recording during palpitations.
- Echocardiogram : an ultrasound of the heart to check for structural abnormalities.
These tests help in diagnosing the cause and guiding appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Heart palpitations can be a benign occurrence or a sign of a more serious condition. Understanding the causes and symptoms of heart palpitations is crucial for determining when to seek medical advice. Dr. Chetan Rathi emphasizes the importance of monitoring symptoms and undergoing necessary tests to ensure the heart is healthy.
FAQs of Heart Palpitations
Are Heart Palpitations Common?
Yes, heart palpitations are quite common and can occur in healthy individuals. They are often linked to stress, caffeine, or anxiety but should be evaluated if persistent or accompanied by other symptoms.
How Do I Diagnose Heart Palpitations?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, detailed medical history, and tests like ECG, Holter monitoring, and blood tests to identify the underlying cause.
How to Stop Heart Palpitations Immediately?
To stop palpitations immediately, try deep breathing exercises, splashing cold water on your face, or practising the Valsalva manoeuvre (holding your breath and bearing down as if having a bowel movement). These methods can help reset the heart’s rhythm.
