If you experience unexplained fluttering, faintness, or heart palpitations, be cautious — it may indicate various health risks such as arrhythmia, low blood sugar, hyperthyroidism, or an underlying infection.
Palpitations
Have you ever been sitting still, doing nothing in particular, yet felt your heart racing or a sudden fluttering sensation for no clear reason? These symptoms are broadly called palpitations and can arise from many causes. They shouldn’t be ignored—proper evaluation and treatment are important because, in some cases, palpitations can be life-threatening.
So what exactly are palpitations, what causes them, and what can you do if your heart is pounding or beating too fast? This article shares key facts to help you understand the condition.
What symptoms are considered palpitations?
Palpitations are sensations of the heart beating irregularly—too fast, too forcefully, too slowly, or out of rhythm. You may feel a flutter, a sudden drop sensation like falling from a height, or other symptoms such as shortness of breath, breathing difficulty, easy fatigue without a clear cause, chest tightness, dizziness, or even fainting. The pattern depends on the underlying reason for the abnormal heartbeat. If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor promptly for evaluation and timely treatment. Don’t wait until the problem progresses and damages the heart, when it may be harder to correct.
Conditions and causes that trigger palpitations
As noted, abnormal heartbeats have many causes. The eight most common include:
1. Low blood sugar
Palpitations can occur when blood glucose drops to abnormal levels—often in people with diabetes, those who eat too little, or those who over-exercise.
2. Fever or certain infections
When body temperature is high (about 38–41°C) or infection is present, the body needs more energy, making the heart work harder and causing a fluttering sensation.
3. Certain medications
Some drugs can cause palpitations as a side effect, such as medicines for high blood pressure, the antihistamine terfenadine, some antibiotics, antidepressants, and asthma inhalers containing salbutamol.
4. High stress and anxiety
Excessive excitement, stress, fear, or anxiety can lead to a racing heartbeat, breathing difficulty, sweating, tremors, and chest discomfort.
5. Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid speeds up metabolism and may cause hand tremors and an abnormally fast heartbeat.
6. Congenital structural heart problems
Also called congenital heart disease. Some cases present at birth; others appear later. Causes include genetics, certain infections, Down syndrome, and substance use during pregnancy.
7. Other heart diseases
Ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and valvular abnormalities can all trigger abnormal rhythms and require medical diagnosis and treatment at the source.
8. Cardiac arrhythmias
Arrhythmias include rhythms that are too fast, too slow, or irregular. They’re diagnosed via ECG, exercise stress testing, chest X-ray, or echocardiography. Arrhythmias increase risks of complications such as stroke and heart failure.
How to relieve palpitations at home
If you have palpitations not explained by the causes above, you can start with these lifestyle steps:
- Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks such as soda, tea, and coffee.
- Stop smoking.
- Avoid stimulant medications, as well as certain herbal products and supplements.
- Reduce stress and anxiety with yoga, exercise, and meditation.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit foods high in MSG, sodium, and nitrates.
- Sleep 6–8 hours per night.
However, these are only first-aid measures. If a heart disorder is detected, consult a specialist. Medical treatments for arrhythmias include medications, pacemakers, electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation, and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. The approach depends on the cause, severity, and your doctor’s judgment.
If you experience palpitations, fluttering, or a rapid heartbeat, you can receive a thorough evaluation at the Arrhythmia Center at Synphaet Ramintra Hospital. Evaluation and treatment are provided by cardiology specialists, equipped with modern technology to restore optimal heart function.
For more information or to book an appointment, call 02-793-5000
