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Have you ever felt your heart flutter, race, or skip a beat? These sensations, known as heart palpitations, are more common than you might think. While they can be harmless, they sometimes signal an underlying condition. Understanding the causes of heart palpitations and what triggers them can help you manage symptoms and seek care when necessary.
In this blog, we’ll explore what causes palpitations, how stress, caffeine, dehydration, and other daily factors can affect your heartbeat, and when it’s time to consult a doctor. If you’re looking for expert guidance and care, Continental Hospitals is here to help.
What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations are sensations where you feel your heart beating faster, stronger, or irregularly. Some people describe it as a fluttering or pounding in the chest. Others feel like their heart has skipped a beat. These episodes can last for seconds or minutes and may happen occasionally or frequently.
While palpitations are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate a more serious issue, especially if accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Common Causes of Heart Palpitations
There are several irregular heartbeat causes, ranging from lifestyle habits to medical conditions. Let’s break down the most common ones:
1. Anxiety and Stress
Emotional stress is one of the most frequent palpitations and stress triggers. When you're anxious, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline, which can make your heart beat faster or irregularly. This is why anxiety and palpitations often go hand in hand.
You might notice your heart racing before a big presentation or during periods of worry. Deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and managing your mental health can help reduce these episodes.
2. Caffeine and Stimulants
Too much coffee, tea, energy drinks, or even some sodas can cause caffeine heart palpitations. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, increasing heart rate and potentially causing your heart to flutter or skip beats.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine, try reducing your intake or switching to decaffeinated options. Always read labels, as some medications and supplements also contain caffeine or similar stimulants.
3. Palpitations After Eating
For some people, palpitations after eating are a concern. This can happen when the body redirects blood to the digestive system, slightly increasing the heart's workload. Rich meals, high sugar intake, or foods with high sodium can also contribute to a fluttering chest.
To avoid this, eat smaller portions, stay hydrated, and avoid lying down immediately after meals.
4. Dehydration
Palpitations and dehydration are closely linked. When your body lacks enough fluids, your blood pressure can drop, and your heart has to work harder to pump blood. This strain can lead to heart racing at rest or irregular rhythms.
Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather or after exercise, to support stable heart function.
5. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations—such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can cause heart fluttering reasons in some women. These changes can affect the nervous system, leading to palpitations.
Although usually harmless, recurring episodes should be evaluated to rule out underlying issues.
6. Medications and Supplements
Certain medications, including asthma inhalers, decongestants, and thyroid treatments, may trigger heart palpitations causes. Even over-the-counter supplements or herbal remedies can affect your heartbeat.
Always inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re taking, especially if you notice a pattern between usage and symptoms.
7. Medical Conditions
Sometimes, irregular heartbeat causes are rooted in health problems such as:
- Thyroid disorders (especially hyperthyroidism)
- Anemia
- Low blood sugar
- Heart valve issues
- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
In such cases, palpitations are often accompanied by fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Timely evaluation is essential.
8. Palpitations at Night
Some people experience palpitations at night, which can be disturbing. Lying down can increase awareness of your heartbeat. Acid reflux, sleep apnea, or even vivid dreams can also contribute to these sensations.
If palpitations at night are frequent, it's best to keep a symptom diary and share it with your doctor.
9. Heart Skipping Beats
A common way people describe palpitations is feeling like the heart has “skipped” a beat. In many cases, this is due to premature heartbeats, which are often benign. However, if they occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms, further testing may be needed.
When to Worry About Palpitations
Palpitations can be unsettling, but they are not always dangerous. However, when to worry palpitations becomes important if you notice:
- Chest pain
- Fainting or severe dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- A rapid heart rate that doesn’t slow down
- Frequent episodes that worsen over time
These symptoms could indicate a serious condition such as an arrhythmia or heart disease and should not be ignored.
How Are Palpitations Treated?
The treatment depends on the underlying cause. For instance:
- If caffeine is the trigger, cutting back can help.
- If anxiety is the cause, stress management techniques or therapy may be effective.
- For thyroid or heart-related conditions, targeted medical treatment is necessary.
Diagnostic tools like ECGs, Holter monitors, and blood tests are used to find the root cause and guide the treatment plan.
Why Choose Continental Hospitals for Heart Care?
At Continental Hospitals, we understand that symptoms like palpitations can be both uncomfortable and alarming. Our expert cardiology team uses the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective care.
Here’s why thousands trust us:
- Experienced cardiologists and electrophysiologists
- Advanced heart rhythm monitoring technology
- Personalized treatment plans
- Holistic care that focuses on prevention and long-term heart health
- Quick appointments and a patient-first approach
Whether your palpitations are mild or a sign of something more, our specialists are here to provide answers and peace of mind.
Conclusion
Heart palpitations are a common experience, and while many are harmless, some need medical attention. From palpitations and stress to palpitations at night, recognizing your triggers can help you take control of your heart health.
Avoid excessive caffeine, stay hydrated, manage stress, and monitor your symptoms. If you feel your heart skipping beats, racing at rest, or fluttering frequently, don’t wait.
Experiencing heart palpitations or irregular heartbeats?
Speak to our best heart specialist at Continental Hospitals today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.
