Heart palpitations can feel alarming – especially when they seem to come out of nowhere. While many palpitations are harmless, others can signal an underlying heart concern that needs medical attention.
If you’re noticing new or worsening symptoms, the safest first step is to make an appointment with your primary care provider or a cardiologist.
What are heart palpitations?
According to Jeffrey Senfield, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist in our Greenville market, heart palpitations occur when your heart beats out of sync with its normal rhythm.
“Palpitations are very common,” Dr. Senfield explains. “Most of the time they tend to be pretty benign, but sometimes in some patients, especially with some high-risk patients, it can be very concerning and it’s a very good reason to seek medical care.”
People describe heart palpitations in different ways, including:
- A fluttering sensation
- A skipped or extra beat
- A pounding feeling in the chest
- A rapid or racing heartbeat
These symptoms are among the most common reasons patients visit primary care providers, cardiologists and even emergency departments.
Who is most likely to have heart palpitations?
Heart palpitations can affect people at any age, but Dr. Senfield often sees them in patients between ages 60 and 75.
“A lot of people can have heart palpitations no matter where they are in life, but usually you see them in patients that are a little bit older in age,” Dr. Senfield adds.
Palpitations can be caused by:
- Genetics
- Age-related changes in heart rhythm
- Dietary triggers like spicy or cold foods
- Stress and anxiety
- Medical conditions, including thyroid disorders or arrhythmias
- Stimulants, such as caffeine or certain medications
“Certain spicy foods and certain cold foods can be a trigger,” he adds. “Most definitely, stress can be a trigger of this as well.”
If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms, your provider can help identify whether your palpitations are lifestyle‑related or linked to another health condition.
When to get medical care
Even though most heart palpitations are mild, some symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.
“I think that it’s important for patients to seek medical care if they are concerned at all,” Dr. Senfield advises. “If they are concerned that their heart is racing and they don’t understand why, that’s a great reason to see a doctor.”
This is especially true for those patients who might be suffering concerning symptoms, he adds.
Seek urgent medical care if palpitations occur with:
- Chest pain during movement
- Shortness of breath, especially with activity
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting or near‑fainting episodes
In these situations, Dr. Senfield recommends going directly to urgent care or an emergency department, as these symptoms may indicate a more serious heart rhythm issue.
Tests to diagnose them
Your provider may recommend one or more tests to better understand your heart rhythm, including:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
- Holter or event monitor
- Echocardiogram
- Blood tests
- Stress testing
These tests help determine whether palpitations stem from a benign cause or a condition like atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia or another arrhythmia.
Lifestyle habits to reduce palpitations
While treatment depends on the cause, Dr. Senfield encourages several heart‑healthy habits that may reduce palpitations and support overall cardiovascular health:
- Regular physical activity
- A balanced, heart‑healthy diet
- Adequate sleep
- Stress‑management strategies
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol if they trigger symptoms
Treatment options for heart palpitations
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Lifestyle changes
- Medication
- Management of underlying conditions (such as thyroid disease)
- Heart rhythm procedures for more serious arrhythmias
The most important step is to speak with your primary care provider about any concerns you have. No question is too small when it comes to your heart.
How we can help
Heart palpitations can feel unsettling, but you don’t have to manage them alone. Your provider can evaluate your symptoms, identify the cause and help you protect your heart health.
If you’re experiencing ongoing or concerning heart palpitations, make an appointment with your primary care provider or cardiologist today.
Also, learn more about the heart and vascular services we provide at Bon Secours.
