Heart Palpitations: Symptoms and Medical Attention

     If you notice an irregular heartbeat, it may indicate an arrhythmia, which can present as a rapid or forceful heartbeat, or a combination of both. Some individuals may describe experiencing a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, or feeling faint. When experiencing palpitations, it is best to stay calm and observe the characteristics of the episode to see if they are consistent each time.

For further insights, refer to the article: What Causes Arrhythmia and Can It Be Treated?

What to Do If You Experience Palpitations

• Sit down and rest to prevent accidents or falls, and seek assistance if necessary.
• If driving, pull over and take a break.
• If you have access to a heart rate monitor, such as a smartwatch, an automatic blood pressure monitor, or a fingertip pulse oximeter, measure your heart rate during the episode. These readings can provide valuable information for diagnosis.

While palpitations are often associated with heart conditions, they can also result from other medical conditions or stress affecting different organ systems, producing symptoms similar to those of heart disease.

Diagnostic Process

     A physician will assess the correlation between palpitations and any irregularities detected in an electrocardiogram (ECG). If palpitations occur but no arrhythmia is detected during continuous heart rhythm monitoring, further investigation may be required to identify other potential causes, such as lung disease, metabolic disorders, or anxiety.

Urgency of Medical Consultation

     In most cases, palpitations are not an emergency. However, if symptoms persist for an extended period or are accompanied by chest pain, loss of consciousness, or low blood pressure, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention for an appropriate evaluation and treatment.