Heart palpitations are generally not a major condition as long as the heart is in good shape. Being in good physical health and staying active are both indicators of a healthy heart. However, there are situations when heart disease is present but not severe enough to be discovered. Palpitations are a warning sign that anything is amiss with your heart. The first step is to record them on an electrocardiogram (ECG) during an incident when it comes to palpitations. Dr. Rishin Shah can detect if these are something to be concerned about based on the ECG rhythm. He can examine the ECG and cardiac monitor readings to determine whether the palpitations are harmless and only a nuisance or whether they indicate a need for more evaluation.
Cause of heart palpitations
The feeling that your heart is beating very fast, too slow, skipping a beat, or fluttering is known as heart palpitations. Heart palpitations, which are usually painless, can occur at any time and can be felt in the chest or neck. Heart palpitations are uncomfortable, but they are not a cause for alarm. Arrhythmia develops in less than half of those who have heart palpitations (irregular heartbeat). Palpitations can be caused by factors such as:
- Use of alcohol, coffee, and nicotine.
- Anxiety, fear, or stress.
- Hormone changes triggered by pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause.
- Intense exercise.
- Anemia.
- Various medications like decongestants, asthma treatments, and diet pills.
- Low blood sugar.
- Dehydration.
What is the treatment for palpitations?
The source of your palpitations will determine the ideal treatment for you. You may not require any therapy. You should avoid specific meals if they cause your palpitations. You may need medication, medicine, surgery, or a device to treat heart disorders or an irregular heart rhythm. It’s essential to honor all of your follow-up visits with your doctor.
Problems related to palpitations
Possible problems for palpitations caused by a cardiac disease include:
- Â Â Â Fainting- Blood pressure might drop if the heart beats too quickly, leading the person to pass out. People who have a cardiac condition, such as congenital heart disease or specific valve disorders, are more likely to experience this.
- Â Â Cardiac arrest – this is a condition in which the heart stops beating. Palpitations are occasionally caused by life-threatening cardiac disorders, which can cause the heart to stop pumping properly.
- Â Â Â Stroke – Blood can pool and create clots if palpitations are triggered by atrial fibrillation, an illness in which the top chambers of the heart quiver instead of beating normally. A clot can break out and block a brain artery, resulting in a stroke.
- Â Â Heart failure – Some arrhythmias can impair the heart’s ability to pump blood. Managing the rate of an arrhythmia that triggers heart failure can sometimes help the heart function better.
If your palpitations get worse or you have a history of heart illness and have them frequently, you should see your doctor immediately. Call Prime Heart and Vascular or schedule a consultation online to learn more about palpitations.
