Feeling your heart skip a beat, flutter in your chest, or race without warning can be an unsettling experience. These sensations, known as heart palpitations, are often brief and harmless. However, in some cases, they may point to an underlying heart condition that requires evaluation.

Heart palpitations are one of the most common reasons people visit a cardiologist. At Epic Cardiology, we help patients across Greater Los Angeles understand what their symptoms mean and whether further testing is necessary.

What Are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are the sensation that your heart is beating in an unusual way. They can feel like:

• Fluttering
  
• Skipping beats
  
• Pounding or racing
  
• A pause followed by a strong beat
  

These sensations can occur at rest or during activity, and may last only a few seconds or several minutes. Some people feel them in the chest, while others notice them in the throat or neck.

Palpitations are usually harmless, especially if they occur infrequently and go away on their own. But if they happen regularly, come with other symptoms, or make you feel unwell, they should be evaluated by a provider.

Common Causes of Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations can be triggered by a variety of factors, many of which are not related to serious heart disease. Some of the most common include:

1. Stress or Anxiety. Strong emotions and chronic stress can release hormones that temporarily increase heart rate and rhythm. Palpitations during panic attacks are especially common.

2. Stimulants. Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, energy drinks, and certain medications can all trigger palpitations in some individuals.

3. Exercise. While physical activity increases heart rate normally, some people become more aware of their heartbeat during or after exercise, especially if they are dehydrated or overexerted.

4. Hormonal Changes. Palpitations are sometimes linked to hormonal shifts, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or with thyroid disorders.

5. Fever or Illness. Any condition that raises body temperature or increases workload on the heart can cause noticeable heartbeats.

6. Electrolyte Imbalances. Low levels of potassium, magnesium, or other electrolytes may interfere with the heart’s electrical signals.

When Palpitations May Be a Sign of a Heart Problem

In some cases, heart palpitations are caused by arrhythmias. These are abnormal heart rhythms that may require treatment. These can include:

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib) – An irregular and often rapid heartbeat
  
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) – A fast rhythm originating in the upper chambers
  
• Ventricular arrhythmias – Irregular rhythms originating in the lower chambers, which can be more serious
  
• Premature beats – Extra heartbeats that disrupt the normal rhythm
  

If you have heart disease or other risk factors, palpitations may be more concerning. That’s why it’s important to understand when symptoms warrant evaluation.

When to See a Doctor

You should schedule an appointment if your palpitations:

• Occur frequently or last more than a few minutes
  
• Happen during physical activity or while lying down
  
• Wake you up from sleep
  
• Are accompanied by other symptoms such as:
  
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    
  • Shortness of breath
    
  • Chest pain or pressure
    
  • Fainting or near fainting
    
  • Fatigue or weakness
    

Even if your symptoms are mild, it is a good idea to get checked if they are new, persistent, or causing you concern. A provider can determine whether the cause is benign or related to an arrhythmia or other condition that requires treatment.

Seek emergency care if your palpitations are sudden, severe, or occur with chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.

How Are Palpitations Evaluated?

Your provider will begin by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and any potential triggers. Diagnostic testing may include:

Electrocardiogram (EKG):

• Records the heart’s electrical activity during your visit
  

Holter Monitor:

• Worn for 24 to 48 hours to track your heartbeat throughout the day
  

Event Monitor:

• Worn for longer periods to catch occasional irregular rhythms
  

Echocardiogram:

• Uses ultrasound to view the structure and function of the heart
  

Blood Tests:

• May check for thyroid problems, electrolyte levels, or other contributing factors
  

If no immediate cause is found, you may be asked to track your symptoms and return for follow-up testing.

Can Heart Palpitations Be Prevented?

Many palpitations improve with simple changes:

• Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and stimulants
  
• Managing stress through relaxation or mindfulness techniques
  
• Staying hydrated and avoiding overexertion
  
• Treating underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or anemia
  

If an arrhythmia is diagnosed, treatment may involve medication, lifestyle adjustments, or in some cases, procedures to correct the abnormal rhythm.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re experiencing heart palpitations and are unsure of what they mean, a cardiac evaluation can help provide answers. Early diagnosis is key to addressing any underlying issues and helping you feel confident about your heart health.

Epic Cardiology has locations across the Greater Los Angeles area, including clinics that serve Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about services near you.