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Heart Palpitations

The awareness of the heart beating unusually fast, forcefully, or irregularly.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations refer to the sensation of feeling your own heartbeat as stronger, faster, or more irregular than normal. They are often described as pounding, fluttering, or a 'flip-flop' sensation in the chest. They can resolve in seconds or persist for minutes.

The vast majority of palpitations stem from harmless causes such as stress, anxiety, excessive caffeine, or exercise. In some cases, however, conditions that require treatment — such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, or ventricular arrhythmias — may be responsible.

Providing your physician with a detailed account of when the palpitations occur, how often, and how long they last helps reach a diagnosis. Holter monitoring (24–48 hours of rhythm recording) is usually the first-line diagnostic test.

Symptoms

A forceful, fast, or irregular heartbeat sensation
A 'flip-flop' feeling or a skipped beat
Brief dizziness or lightheadedness
Mild shortness of breath
Mild chest tightness or discomfort
Accompanying anxiety or restlessness
Episodes that start and stop abruptly

Risk Factors

Excessive intake of caffeine, nicotine, or energy drinks
Anxiety disorders and panic attacks
Anemia and thyroid conditions
Insufficient sleep and high stress
Certain medications (decongestants, asthma drugs, some antidepressants)
Electrolyte disturbances (low potassium or magnesium)
History of structural heart disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If palpitations are accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or chest pain, seek emergency care
  • If palpitations last for minutes or hours
  • If palpitations are becoming more frequent
  • If someone with a prior cardiac diagnosis develops new palpitations
  • Sudden palpitations that begin at rest

Treatment Methods

01
Identifying and avoiding triggers (caffeine, stress, alcohol)
02
Vagal maneuvers such as the Valsalva maneuver (in SVT)
03
Beta-blockers or calcium-channel blockers (when indicated)
04
Treatment of anxiety with psychological support
05
Management of underlying conditions such as thyroid disease or anemia
06
Specific therapy for any arrhythmia identified on Holter monitoring

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.