Everyone experiences heart palpitations, even if it’s only after running up a hill. Everything from strenuous exercise to strong emotions can make you overly aware of your heartbeat. It may feel like your heart is fluttering, and the sensation can be in your chest or neck.
Our cardiologists at Heart & Vascular Institute, with four Michigan locations, frequently see patients who have questions about heart palpitations.
We understand palpitations can feel strange and unsettling, and although most of the time they aren’t dangerous, we’re always happy to talk to you about what you’re feeling and why.
An average heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute. Palpitations are usually temporary and not dangerous. An abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, can be more serious.
Your activity level closely correlates with your heart rate. You’d expect your heart to beat faster when you’re going for a jog than when you’re watching television, for example.
Sometimes, though, your heart might speed up or feel odd when you’re not doing anything. Potential causes include:
In some cases, it’s clear what causes palpitations — that extra cup of coffee, strenuous exercise, or medication. Sometimes, the cause is less obvious, and that’s when people worry.
If you’re experiencing heart palpitations and can’t figure out why, schedule an appointment with us. We can help you understand your overall heart health and check for problems. Sometimes heart palpitations are associated with more significant issues, such as:
We offer diagnostic testing to rule out serious problems. If all of your tests are normal, we may recommend lifestyle changes.
The lifestyle changes we recommend for people having heart palpitations are generally good for overall health.
For example, if you smoke or use tobacco, quitting can have a hugely positive impact on your health, including reducing heart palpitations. Similarly, lowering your caffeine consumption has multiple benefits.
Learning to reduce stress and anxiety can also reduce the frequency of heart palpitations, improve your sleep, lessen headaches, and help you feel better in general. Consider a yoga or meditation class or practice simple breathing techniques.
Regular exercise can also lower stress and help you enjoy better heart health. Find an activity you enjoy so you’re more likely to stick with it. Whether you join a team or start taking an after-dinner walk, movement can feel good.
Although heart palpitations are common and usually not dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and may indicate a problem. If you’re having heart palpitations often, schedule an appointment by phone or online today at the Heart & Vascular Institute office near you.
