Palpitations Causes

Heart palpitations, which are heartbeats that are felt in like rapid, pounding or fluttering sensations, are generally harmless. However, in rare cases, they may raise concerns and may be a manifestation of some serious heart condition such as arrhythmia (an abnormal rate of muscle contractions in the heart or irregular heartbeat). Symptoms of heart palpitations occur in the form of skipped heartbeats, heartbeats that are faster than normal or pumping harder than usual, and heartbeats which give a fluttering feeling. Such kinds of palpitations can be felt in the throat or neck and even in the chest.

Palpitations do not depend on the physical state of the person for their occurrence. While at rest or when involved in any kind of activity, the affected person can feel the symptoms at any time. They may also occur even when the person is sitting, walking or simply lying down. It is advisable to call for medical help if such symptoms are accompanied by the ones which include chest pain, immediate fainting, breathing problems and dizziness.

What Triggers Palpitations

Immense stress or anxiety are some of the severe emotional responses which trigger palpitations. Intake of caffeine and nicotine may also cause the same and so can disorders such as fever. Menstruation, pregnancy or menopause (the time in a woman's life in which the menstrual cycle ends) are conditions which are related to hormonal changes in the body. Besides these, other palpitations causes crop up from administration of certain medications for cold and cough and some medications which contain stimulants.

Medical conditions which may also trigger palpitation involve hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland; pathologically excessive production of thyroid hormones or the condition resulting from excessive production of thyroid hormones) or arrhythmia which involves tachycardia [abnormally rapid heartbeat (over 100 beats per minute)], bradycardia (abnormally slow heartbeat) and atrial fibrillation (fibrillation of the muscles of the atria of the heart).

Treatment

As aforesaid, palpitations should not be considered as much of a concern, until there is an underlying cause, as cited above. However, if you experience the symptoms often and that too accompanied by other signs, such as those mentioned above, then you must give a thought of paying a quick visit to a doctor. Medications or surgery may be considered to treat the underlying cause of palpitations, if any. Otherwise, what you may get is advice from your doctor in order to avoid the trigger that cause the palpitations.

Palpitations could be reduced with the help of relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga or light exercises as they help de-stress your mind and body. Palpitations tend to hit a person usually during times of stress and anxiety. Avoid taking stuffs such as caffeine, nicotine, certain cold medicines and herbal supplements. These are high in stimulants and contribute greatly to palpitations. Not to mention, stay away from illegal drugs.