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Are Your Heart Palpitations a Sign of Something Serious?
Published: May 09, 2024
Heart palpitations are common, but they can sometimes indicate a serious heart condition. Understanding the causes can help determine if you need to seek medical attention.
What Are Palpitations?
Palpitations are the feeling of a fast, fluttering, or pounding heart. This sensation can be felt in the chest, throat, or neck. Though often harmless, palpitations can sometimes signal an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia.
Common Causes of Palpitations
Palpitations can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, caffeine, or an underlying heart condition. Cardiac disorders are a primary concern, but psychiatric conditions like anxiety can also trigger palpitations. Additionally, substance use and certain medications are known to cause these sensations.
When to See a Doctor
If palpitations are frequent, last for long periods, or are accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or chest pain, it is important to seek medical advice. These could be signs of a more serious heart condition that requires further evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Palpitations are the feeling of a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Not always, but they can sometimes signal an underlying heart issue.
Stress, caffeine, heart conditions, and medications are common causes.
Seek help if they are frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by other symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the causes of palpitations can help determine when medical evaluation is necessary.
References
- Kroenke K, Arrington ME, Mangelsdorff AD. The prevalence of symptoms in medical outpatients and the adequacy of therapy. Arch Intern Med 1990; 150:1685.
- Zimetbaum P, Josephson ME. Evaluation of patients with palpitations. N Engl J Med 1998; 338:1369.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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