![]() Wires connect the electrodes to a computer, which displays the test results. Sticky patches (electrodes) are placed on the chest and sometimes the arms and legs. This quick and painless test measures the electrical activity of the heart. If your doctor thinks that palpitations are caused by an irregular heartbeat or other heart condition, tests might include: You will likely be asked questions about your medical history. The exam may include looking for signs of medical conditions that can cause heart palpitations, such as a swollen thyroid gland. If you have a supraventricular tachycardia, your healthcare provider may review ways you can slow your heart rate at home.To diagnose palpitations, a health care provider will do a physical exam and listen to your heart using a stethoscope. This can help identify causes, such as certain drinks or behaviors. It can be helpful to keep a log of your palpitations and possible triggers. Often palpitations will resolve on their own. If heart palpitations are brief and infrequent and there are no concerning symptoms, there are steps you can take to help manage these at home, such as the preventive steps discussed above. When is it OK to treat palpitations at home? In some cases, a defibrillator - a device that shocks the heart, if needed - may also be recommended to monitor and automatically detect and correct dangerous arrhythmias. This is when the problem area of the heart responsible for sending irregular electric signals is zapped to stop it from doing so. If you’re experiencing anxiety or stress, practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques.Ĭontrol chronic conditions, such as blood pressure, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.ĭepending on the type of palpitations you have, your healthcare provider may suggest medications, such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, or other antiarrhythmic medications.įor some abnormal heart rhythms, you may benefit from a procedure called catheter ablation. Review medications that could be triggers. Whatever the cause, some general measures to prevent palpitations are a good place to start: Treatment of heart palpitations will depend on the cause. Sometimes people need heart rhythm monitoring over time, and so it may be recommended that you wear a home heart monitor for up to 2 weeks. The provider may do blood tests (such as blood counts, kidney function, and thyroid testing) or also do tests on your heart, such as an electrocardiogram or echocardiogram. Your healthcare provider will ask for details about your symptoms and history. There are several tests that can help figure out the cause of your heart palpitations. What diagnostic tests might be recommended? You have any questions or concerns about them. You have symptoms associated with palpitations. Your palpitations are lasting for a long time. It’s a good idea to see your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following: ![]() What to expect when you see a doctor for heart palpitations Palpitations lasting longer than a few minutes If you have any of the following symptoms with palpitations, you should seek emergency care: What symptoms should I watch out for, and when should I seek emergency care? Use stimulant drugs, like methamphetamines or cocaine Have had a heart attack or have an underlying heart condition You may be at a higher risk for dangerous heart palpitations if you: Who’s at risk for life-threatening heart palpitations? If untreated, they can increase your risk of stroke, heart failure, or sudden death. ![]() Ventricular tachycardia: when the lower chambers (known as ventricles) of the heart beat abnormally fastĭiagnosing and treating these heart rhythms is important. Supraventricular tachycardia: when the atria beat abnormally fast These may require immediate medical attention and can include:Ītrial fibrillation: when the upper chambers (known as the atria) of the heart beat irregularlyĪtrial flutter: when the atria beat quickly in a “fluttering” pattern There are some heart palpitations that can be a sign of a more dangerous heart rhythm. ![]() What types of palpitations need medical attention? Sometimes, an underlying medical condition can cause palpitations, such as thyroid conditions, diabetes, lung disease, anemia, or heart disease. Some medications, such as inhalers, blood pressure medications, or allergy medications Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause The most common triggers of harmless heart palpitations include: There are many possible causes of heart palpitations. Sometimes palpitations are more noticeable when you’re lying down at night or when being quiet and still. Some may start to notice palpitations more often or feel their heartbeat in their throat or neck. Sometimes people can become more aware of and sensitive to their heartbeat. They can feel like your heart is skipping a beat or has an extra beat. Heart palpitations may feel like a pounding or fluttering in your chest.
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