Palpitations

Heart palpitations might not be cause for concern but can sometimes indicate a medical problem requiring treatment. At Heart and Vascular Care in Plano, Texas, board-certified cardiologist Bhupinder Singh, MD, and his expert team can diagnose and treat the cause of palpitations as needed to lower your risk of complications. At the first sign of a pounding or racing heartbeat, schedule an appointment with Heart and Vascular Care over the phone or online.

What are heart palpitations?

Heart palpitations are sensations that your heart is racing or pounding. You might feel palpitations in your throat, neck, or chest. They can feel unpleasant, scary, or like your heart stopped or skipped beats. Having palpitations means your heart’s rhythm might be abnormal, which is why seeing a heart specialist is important.

What do heart palpitations feel like?

If you have heart palpitations, you might experience sensations of your heart:

• Beating too fast
• Flip-flopping
• Pounding
• Fluttering rapidly
• Skipping beats

Palpitations can occur when you’re physically active or resting. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice palpitations with dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, or chest pain. Palpitations caused by a heart problem can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

What are the risk factors for palpitations?

Some common risk factors associated with palpitations include strenuous exercise, stimulants, certain medications, hormone changes, pregnancy, stress, anxiety, and panic attacks. Thyroid issues can also contribute to heart palpitations, as well as heart problems like heart defects, arrhythmia, and previous heart surgery or heart attacks.

How does my provider diagnose the cause of palpitations?

To diagnose possible causes of heart palpitations and develop a treatment plan, Dr. Singh listens to your heart and asks questions about your symptoms and medical history. He completes a physical examination and might recommend an electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, Holter monitoring, or other heart function tests.

What are my heart palpitation treatment options?

Depending on the cause of palpitations, the Heart and Vascular Care team might recommend one of the following treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes that may reduce or eliminate palpitations include reducing stress, steering clear of caffeine and other stimulants, not using illegal drugs, avoiding nicotine, trying relaxation techniques, and getting regular exercise.

Heart Disease Treatments

When a heart problem is the cause of palpitations, Dr. Singh and his staff might suggest you make dietary changes, take medications, or undergo a surgical procedure.

If you or a loved one experience palpitations, see the Heart and Vascular Care team for an evaluation. We see patients in Plano, Texas, and McKinney, Texas. Call us to book your appointment today.