Have you ever felt your heart beat faster or seem to thump harder in your chest? That sensation of a fluttering or pounding heart is known as a heart palpitation. This occurrence is often brief and harmless. It can point to many causes outside of your health, especially an acute one.
But in some instances, a racing heart can become serious and require an evaluation from your doctor. Pay attention to your body and do not hesitate to contact a heart specialist if you notice chronic or severe palpitations. Read on to learn more about heart palpitations and what this symptom can mean for your cardiovascular health.
Why Does My Heartbeat Feel Irregular?
The average individual does not really notice their heart beating. But if you feel a heart palpitation, it can be unsettling to become aware of the way your heart pounds at an irregular rate. A brief disruption, such as an acute flutter, could be a palpitation.
These can happen due to stress, changes in your breathing or physical activity, or the usage of substances like alcohol or medication. The heart will usually readjust quickly to its normal rhythm. If it does not and continues to beat too fast, too slow, or off-kilter, then this is known as arrhythmia.
Arrhythmias are fairly common and not always dangerous for a patient. They can come with other symptoms besides the racing heart feeling, including dizziness, shortness of breath, and pain in the chest. Causes of this condition include stress, smoking habits, certain medications, high blood pressure, heart valve disorders, thyroid issues, and cardiac damage.
Should I Call My Doctor About Heart Palpitations?
A single event of a heart palpitation will not need attention from a doctor. But if the symptom persists without resolving or occurs on a frequent basis, this could point to an arrhythmia. Since a number of conditions could cause an arrhythmia, your doctor will want to evaluate you to determine if you have an underlying cardiovascular issue creating this problem.
If the racing heart comes with secondary symptoms such as chest pain or dizziness, you should let your doctor know right away. Call 911 if you notice early signs of a heart attack or serious cardiac issues, including severe pain or loss of consciousness.
A healthy patient can experience heart palpitations sometimes. But if you have an existing heart problem, you should tell your doctor if you notice a racing heart rate. Arrhythmia also should not be ignored. Untreated heart rate irregularities might put you in danger of other medical issues, including a stroke.
Pay attention to your health. To lower your risk of heart palpitations, steer clear of caffeine and consider relaxation methods like breathing exercises or meditation. Drink plenty of water and stick to a healthy diet.
Stress can trigger acute heart rate concerns, so think of ways to reduce your overall stress levels. For more preventative care and advice, consult with your cardiovascular doctor.