Palpitations

What are palpitations?

Heart palpitations are the sensation of an abnormal or irregular heartbeat. They can feel like a fluttering sensation, an extra beat, or a skipped beat. You might feel palpitations in your neck or throat.

In most cases, heart palpitations are benign. However, they can also be a sign of cardiovascular health issues.

What causes palpitations?

Many factors can cause heart palpitations, including arrhythmias, abnormal heart valves, congestive heart failure, and heart disease. They can also be caused by:

• Stress
• Panic attacks
• Exercise
• Excessive caffeine consumption
• Tobacco use

Health problems such as thyroid disease, specifically hyperactive thyroid disorder, can also cause palpitations.

When should I talk to a doctor about palpitations?

While many of the causes of heart palpitations are harmless, there’s no way to know what’s causing that fluttering feeling until you see your provider and have an evaluation. Make an appointment if you have frequent or persistent palpitations. 

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have palpitations combined with chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or dizziness. 

Are palpitations cause for concern?

Read more to find out

How is the cause of palpitations diagnosed?

At Upper East Side Cardiology, the team provides comprehensive exams and diagnostic testing to identify the issue causing your palpitations. They begin by reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors. 

Your provider also performs a physical exam, listening to your heart and lungs, and checking your blood pressure and pulse at various points in your body. They order tab tests, including blood and urinalysis. 

Depending on your individual needs, your provider might order additional diagnostic testing, including:

• Echocardiograms
• Electrocardiograms
• Stress tests
• Chest X-rays
• Coronary angiography

These tests provide a snapshot of your cardiovascular activity. If they’re inconclusive or your provider needs more information, they might suggest a Holter monitor or an event monitor to evaluate your heart activity for 24 hours or longer. 

How are heart palpitations treated?

After your provider diagnoses the cause of your heart palpitations, the team works with you to implement lifestyle adjustments and treatments to restore your heart health. Many patients benefit from choosing a healthier diet and adding physical activity to their day. 

The team can also help with stress management, and prescribe medication and perform cardiovascular procedures to correct your heartbeat and function. 

MEDTRONIC REVEAL LINQ

The Reveal LINQ System includes a tiny insertable monitor placed just under the skin and the MyCareLink™ Patient Monitor — a bedside unit that collects heart rhythm data from the ICM and sends it to your doctor.

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Call Upper East Side Cardiology or make an appointment online today if you have heart palpitations.