Heart palpitations are a feeling of a fluttering, pounding, or racing heartbeat in your chest. Palpitations can be common but could indicate a more serious underlying heart rhythm problem.
Heart palpitations have many different causes. Potential causes include heart arrhythmia, caffeine use, alcohol use, or side effects of medication or illness. Often, palpitations are benign but should be evaluated to make sure you do not have a dangerous heart arrhythmia. We can evaluate this at Heart of Dixie Cardiology to determine if your palpitations are something that should be treated.
Obesity
Sleep apnea
Diabetes or insulin resistance
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Alcohol use
Smoking
Caffeine use
Family history of palpitations
History of heart surgery
Heart valve problems
Heart disease
Heart failure
Palpitations often come and go and, on occasion, can be persistent. Some people experience symptoms of lightheadedness, shortness of breath, or chest pain when they experience palpitations. It is important to evaluate palpitations to see if you have underlying heart arrhythmia as the cause. If you pass out with your palpitations, seek immediate emergency medical care.
Some common diagnostic tests to evaluate your palpitations include:
a quick diagnostic test performed in the office to evaluate your heart rhythm
a short-term ECG monitor usually worn at home over several days to evaluate heart rhythms
a long-term external ECG monitor usually worn at home for up to 30 days to evaluate heart rhythms
a small implantable monitor that is inserted under the skin and monitors heart rhythms for years
Managing heart palpitations begins with determining the cause of your palpitations. After understanding the reason and underlying cause of your palpitations, treatment may include lifestyle modifications, medication management, or minimally invasive surgery. Palpitations should be evaluated, so contact us today to schedule your appointment.
