HEART PALPITATIONS: SYMPTOMS, CAUSES & TREATMENT

Heart palpitations are sudden sensations of fluttering, pounding, or missing heartbeat that last from a few seconds to several minutes.

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Heart palpitations

WHAT ARE HEART PALPITATIONS?

Heart palpitations refer to a condition in which your heart beats irregularly, often causing a fluttering or pounding sensation. Although it feels uncomfortable, there is usually nothing to worry about. A thorough cardiac evaluation, however, is essential to rule out underlying causes, especially if palpitation episodes occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms.

WHAT CAUSES PALPITATIONS?

Heart palpitations can occur for several reasons. Most are harmless and often linked to general health conditions or lifestyle factors, such as:

  • Chronic stress and anxiety
  • Underlying health conditions, such as thyroid disorders, anaemia, or diabetes
  • Excessive intake of caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine
  • Hormonal changes in women during periods, pregnancy, and menopause
  • Poor digestion
  • Side effects of certain medications

SYMPTOMS OF HEART PALPITATIONS

The symptoms of a pounding heartbeat vary from person to person. Some people may notice only mild changes, while others experience more intense or unsettling sensations. Common symptoms include:

  • Racing, Pounding, or Skipped Heartbeat
  • Chest Pain or Discomfort
  • Breathlessness
  • Dizziness or Fainting
  • Extreme Exhaustion

HOW ARE HEART PALPITATIONS DIAGNOSED?

Identifying the cause of heart palpitations starts with a careful evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and overall heart health. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, a leading preventive cardiologist in London, assesses your condition through a detailed physical examination and advanced cardiac investigations. If this fluttering sensation becomes more frequent or severe, tests such as an Electrocardiogram, Echocardiogram, 24h heart monitoring via Holter, or Stress Test may be recommended to pinpoint potential triggers and rule out underlying heart problems.

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WHEN TO CONSULT A SPECIALIST?

Heart palpitations are often harmless, usually triggered by stress, caffeine, or certain health conditions. Mild episodes of fluttering heartbeat settle on their own within seconds or minutes. However, when episodes become frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by nausea, dizziness, or chest discomfort, a specialist assessment is essential.

Dr Francesco Lo Monaco evaluates your symptoms, identifies triggers, and rules out underlying heart conditions. Early assessment can help prevent or reduce symptoms and ensure long-term cardiac wellness.

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Dr Francesco Lo Monaco cardiologist in a face-to-face consultation with a patient during a private heart assessment

PREVENTIVE CARDIOLOGY APPROACH TO TREAT PALPITATIONS

Dr Francesco Lo Monaco’s treatment strategy goes beyond simply addressing palpitations with medicine. He focuses on prevention, early detection, and long-term heart health. By identifying triggers and reviewing lifestyle factors, Dr Monaco develops a personalised care plan that helps reduce signs of pounding heart sensation.

Many patients can effectively manage their symptoms through simple lifestyle adjustments, such as:

  • Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake
  • Prioritising quality sleep
  • Managing stress through relaxation techniques
  • Engaging in regular physical activity, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation
  • Following a balanced, heart-healthy diet while limiting processed and junk foods
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FAQs

Some people notice heart palpitations more noticeably at night. It can be due to sleeping posture, eating a late meal, or consuming caffeine. Persistent or worsening symptoms should be analysed by an expert cardiologist.

Anxiety and stress can trigger palpitations by activating the body’s fight-or-flight response, increasing adrenaline levels, and raising heart rate. A detailed cardiac assessment is necessary to distinguish and manage anxiety-related palpitation.

Most palpitations are mild, temporary, and harmless. However, if associated with chest pain, breathlessness, dizziness, or fainting, they may indicate a serious cardiac condition that requires an urgent specialist evaluation. 

Preventing palpitations involves identifying and managing triggers such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, poor sleep, and dehydration. Regular exercise, stress management, a balanced diet, and treatment of underlying medical conditions significantly reduce recurrence.

Large meals, high sugar intake, or digestive issues often cause post-meal palpitations. Eating smaller meals, avoiding oily or processed foods, and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake can help prevent the frequency and severity of this condition.

Palpitations only require medical attention if they occur repeatedly, last several minutes, or are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.