An expert’s guide to heart palpitations

Many of us experience palpitations but what exactly are they? Leading consultant cardiologist Mr Rito Mitra explains what palpitations are, common causes and when it is necessary to see a doctor.

What are palpitations? What do they feel like?

A sensation of thumping of the heart is normal response following exertion or during a fight or flight response. Doctors often refer to palpitations as when there is an uncomfortable awareness of your heart beat.

Are palpitations serious?

Abnormal electrical activity inside the heart can cause heart rhythm issues: these are called arrhythmias and can cause palpitations. Most palpitations are an inconvenvience/ nuisance and the vast majority are clinically benign i.e. they don’t affect long term survival. However, some palpitations arise due to specific arrhythmias and a subset of these can be potentially harmful.

What are the most common causes of palpitations?

Stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol and drugs can provoke palpitations which are usually brief and the benign. However, there are some other types of heart rhythm disturbances which can develop over the years and be prolonged. In addition, to palpitations, they can make people feel lightheaded, breathless or give rise to chest discomfort. Some serious types are associated with loss of consciousness.

When should I see a doctor about palpitations?

If you have an uncomfortable awareness of the heartbeat, and you feel your symptoms are causing a disturbance and not settling down, I recommended that you consult a heart specialist.

Specialists will look out for potential serious markers such as a background or a family history of heart disease including sudden death, fainting or a feeling of being lightheaded during palpitations. Treatment of an arrhythmia depends on its type; some don’t require any treatment at all and some need urgent treatment. Heart rhythm monitors can produce useful information are often found nowadays on smart watches and wearable devices especially the ones with an ECG function.

If you are concerned about heart palpitations and would like to book a consultation with Mr Mitra, you can do so via his Top Doctor’s profile today.