What Causes Palpitations?
August 22, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Palpitations are the sensation of an irregular or rapid heartbeat, often described as a fluttering, pounding, or racing sensation in the chest. They can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from benign issues to more serious underlying conditions. Here are some common causes of palpitations:
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can lead to the release of stress hormones like adrenaline, which can affect heart rate and rhythm.
- Caffeine and Stimulants: Consumption of excessive caffeine, energy drinks, or certain medications can cause palpitations by stimulating the heart.
- Physical Activity: Intense exercise or sudden exertion can lead to a temporary increase in heart rate and palpitations.
- Nicotine: Smoking or using nicotine products can stimulate the heart and cause palpitations.
- Fever and Dehydration: High fever and dehydration can affect electrolyte levels and lead to palpitations.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat asthma, colds, allergies, and some over-the-counter medications, can have palpitations as a side effect.
- Thyroid Issues: An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can lead to an increased heart rate and palpitations.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: An imbalance in electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, or calcium can affect heart rhythm and cause palpitations.
- Heart Conditions: Conditions like atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and other arrhythmias can cause irregular heartbeats and palpitations.
- Caffeine and Stimulants: Consumption of excessive caffeine, energy drinks, or certain medications can cause palpitations by stimulating the heart.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can sometimes trigger palpitations.
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count and insufficient oxygen delivery to the heart can result in palpitations.
- Alcohol or Substance Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption or drug use can affect heart rate and rhythm.
- Heart Valve Disorders: Malfunctioning heart valves can disrupt blood flow and cause irregular heartbeats.
- Structural Heart Issues: Congenital heart defects or other structural abnormalities of the heart can contribute to palpitations.
- Caffeine and Stimulants: Consumption of excessive caffeine, energy drinks, or certain medications can cause palpitations by stimulating the heart.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: An imbalance in electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, or calcium can affect heart rhythm and cause palpitations.
- Heart Conditions: Conditions like atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and other arrhythmias can cause irregular heartbeats and palpitations.
- Caffeine and Stimulants: Consumption of excessive caffeine, energy drinks, or certain medications can cause palpitations by stimulating the heart.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: An imbalance in electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, or calcium can affect heart rhythm and cause palpitations.
- Heart Conditions: Conditions like atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and other arrhythmias can cause irregular heartbeats and palpitations.
It’s important to note that while many cases of palpitations are benign and harmless, some can indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention. If you’re experiencing frequent or severe palpitations, or if they’re accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or fainting, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.