Heart palpitations can be a symptom of many heart problems. They can be caused by various factors, from stress to arrhythmias. However, they don’t always reflect a more serious heart problem, according to Dr Joseph Marine, vice-director of the Division of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins University. Instead, heart palpitations can feel like your heart is thumping or racing and can occur in your neck or chest.
Symptoms
Heart palpitations are sudden and erratic heartbeat sensations that may accompany a skipped heartbeat. They are often associated with chest pain, shortness of breath, and even feelings of faintness. In addition, vibrations are sometimes accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea and sweating. The most important thing to do in such circumstances is to seek medical advice.
A physical exam can often reveal the cause of vibrations, which is essential for a thorough diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will likely order blood tests to check for underlying conditions. These tests can reveal if you have anemia or thyroid imbalance, or even a low potassium level. An electrocardiogram is another standard tool used to diagnose palpitations. This test records the electrical activity of the heart for about 12 seconds. It is also helpful in distinguishing the type of heart problem.
Sometimes, vibrations are caused by an abnormal heart rhythm called supraventricular tachycardia or atrial fibrillation. The two conditions cause irregular heartbeats and can result in a skipped heartbeat. In some patients, a skipped heartbeat can lead to fainting. In addition, people with heart disease are at increased risk of experiencing palpitations.
Causes
Heart palpitations are uncomfortable sensations in the chest that manyditions can cause. They can cause dizziness and even loss of consciousness. While not always a sign of a more severe condition, they should be taken seriously. If you are concerned, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
Your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your palpitations. Several tests may be done, including cardiac auscultation, examination of your extremities, and blood pressure monitoring. During the physical exam, your healthcare provider may listen to your heart with a stethoscope to determine if it is beating abnormally or is in an arrhythmic rhythm. A doctor may also order blood tests to determine the level of hormones, electrolytes, and blood cells. You can also have a urine analysis to determine any stimulants in your system.
Treatments
If you are suffering from heart palpitations, there are many treatments available. Some of the best methods involve changing your lifestyle. For example, you may want to avoid smoking and alcohol and improve your diet. It would be best to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking. Some medications can affect the rhythm of your heart, so you need to discuss any possible side effects with your physician.
The symptoms of heart palpitations are different for each person. For some, they are a quick, pounding sensation in the chest or neck. For others, they are a general feeling of uneasiness. They can occur while moving or at rest and can be triggered by specific activities, emotions, or food.
Electrophysiology study
An electrophysiology study is a way to learn more about your heart’s electrical activity. This study is valuable for diagnosing and treating arrhythmias and other heart conditions. One common arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation, which causes the heart to beat too fast or too slow. This can cause blood to become trapped in the atria, resulting in blood clots or strokes. This severe condition requires early diagnosis to improve treatment and recovery.
The electrophysiology study is also beneficial for determining the effectiveness of certain medications. For example, in many cases, blood thinners are prescribed to treat arrhythmias, but the study can help determine which medication may be more effective. The doctor can then choose the best treatment method based on the specific type of arrhythmia.
Deep breathing
Deep breathing can help to control a fast heartbeat and also help to relax the body. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to decrease the heart rate and blood pressure. It also allows the body to slow down its digestion. In addition, it can train the body to respond calmly to stressful situations and prevent heart attacks.
If you experience palpitations often, it may be a sign of a heart rhythm problem called an arrhythmia. These irregular heartbeats are caused by abnormal levels of potassium in the blood. You should visit your doctor if you experience them often or for an extended period. Although palpitations can be annoying, they are usually not life-threatening. However, you can do several things to prevent them and reduce the severity of the attacks.