Can Hormonal Changes Cause Heart Palpitations?
December 6, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, hormonal changes can indeed cause heart palpitations. Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone in women, can affect the cardiovascular system and contribute to heart palpitations.
During various life stages or events such as menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, women often experience changes in hormone levels. These hormonal fluctuations can influence the autonomic nervous system, leading to palpitations, which are sensations of a rapid, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat.
Estrogen, in particular, can have an impact on the heart and blood vessels. When estrogen levels rise or fall, it can affect the electrical activity of the heart and its response to stress, leading to palpitations. For example:
- Menstrual cycle: Some women may notice heart palpitations or increased awareness of their heartbeat just before or during their menstrual period due to hormonal changes.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters, can also cause palpitations for some women.
- Perimenopause and menopause: During these stages, fluctuations and eventual declines in hormone levels can lead to palpitations as well.
While hormonal fluctuations are a common cause of heart palpitations, other factors can also contribute to palpitations, such as stress, anxiety, caffeine intake, certain medications, thyroid disorders, and heart conditions.
It’s important to note that while palpitations due to hormonal changes are often benign, meaning they are not usually a sign of a serious problem, persistent or severe palpitations should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. If someone experiences frequent or concerning heart palpitations along with other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, seeking medical advice is recommended to rule out any underlying heart condition or other health issues.