Experiencing heart palpitations may elicit concern about your overall health; however, they could be a brief, harmless reaction to a sudden event. We’ll look at three key points about palpitations to help you better understand what you’re feeling and the next best steps.
What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations are characterized by the sensation of an abnormal heartbeat, which may be experienced as fluttering, racing, skipping a beat, or pounding. They’re typically felt in the chest, throat, or neck.
Common Causes of Palpitations
Common causes of palpitations could be the result of a physiological condition or an emotional state.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause significantly impact women’s cardiovascular health, particularly through the reduction or erratic shifts of estrogen, which can overstimulate the nervous system.
- Predisposition: An underlying heart condition, an overactive thyroid gland, an electrolyte imbalance, or a family history of arrhythmia could trigger palpitations.
- Stress: Lingering anxiety or sudden shock triggers the body’s fight or flight mode, heightening nervous system response, and increasing blood pressure.
- Intense physical workout: Whether through exercise or work-related labor, an intense workout can trigger an uncomfortable physical reaction, including heart palpitations. It’s advisable to gradually increase intensity levels and stay hydrated to avoid potential issues. As always, consult with your medical professional before embarking on a new regimen.
Lifestyle & Medication Triggers
You may experience palpitations while going through your daily routine. Lifestyle choices and medications greatly impact cardiovascular health.
Lifestyle Triggers
The following are examples of actions that stimulate the heart
Substance use: The dangers recreational drugs pose to the body, particularly the heart, are common knowledge. However, all substance use impacts the heart’s electrical system. Stimulants like caffeine and nicotine increase heart rate, while alcohol consumption can cause arrhythmia.
Dehydration: Caffeine and alcohol are common culprits for dehydration. You may also experience electrolyte imbalance and reduced blood volume simply by not drinking enough water throughout the day, particularly on hot days or after exercise.
Dietary factors: A high-fat diet, or one composed of refined sugars and carbohydrates, causes inflammation and increases blood pressure.
Medication Triggers
Over-the-counter or prescribed medications may trigger heart palpitations. Discuss possible prescription side effects and concerns with your healthcare professional. While dietary supplements are intended to improve your health, they can have serious adverse effects in combination with an underlying condition or other medications. It’s strongly recommended to consult with a medical team before consuming vitamins, cold medicines, pain relievers, or any OTC options.
Signs Your Palpitations Need Medical Attention
If you have a history of heart disease or have experienced frequent palpitations, you should seek medical care. However, if any of the following severe responses accompany heart palpitations, call 911 for immediate assistance.
- Dizziness, confusion, or lightheadedness
- Chest pains or tightness
- Excessive sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations last 30 seconds or more
- Rapid heart rate
How Piedmont Health Can Help
If you have questions regarding heart palpitations or would like to schedule a routine medical visit, the professionals at Piedmont Health are dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. Contact us by completing our online form or calling (888) 200-7001 to find a location near you. We’re available to assist you with your questions and concerns.
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