Heart palpitations are sensations that your heart is racing, fluttering, pounding or skipping beats. They are common and often harmless but they can sometimes be a sign of an underlying heart rhythm disorder or another health condition.
At Banner Health, our heart specialists can help identify what’s causing your symptoms and whether treatment is needed.
Heart palpitations are the feeling that your heart is beating differently than normal. You may become unusually aware of your heartbeat, even when you're resting.
Palpitations are a symptom, not a diagnosis. They can happen during exercise, while you're sitting quietly or even when you're trying to fall asleep.
In many cases, palpitations occur even when the heart rhythm is normal. In other cases, they may be caused by an arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heart rhythm.
Most heart palpitations are not serious, but recurring symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Everyone experiences palpitations differently. You might notice these sensations in your chest, throat or neck.
Different factors can trigger a change in your heart rhythm. Identifying them helps your provider decide if you need treatment.
You may notice palpitations more when you are resting quietly or lying down.
Hormonal changes may cause palpitations or affect women’s heart health. Hormones shift during:
Several health conditions can contribute to heart palpitations, including:
Sometimes palpitations are caused by an arrhythmia, a problem with the heart’s electrical system. Examples include:
Need answers about palpitations? Schedule an evaluation with a Banner Health heart specialist.
Most palpitations are harmless but for some you need medical attention. You should get care if your symptoms are persistent or getting worse.
Get care right away for:
Anyone can experience heart palpitations, but certain factors may increase your risk:
Most heart palpitations are harmless and resolve on their own. However, persistent, worsening or unexplained symptoms should be evaluated.
Seek emergency care if you have:
Your health care provider will help you find the cause of your symptoms. They will use several testing and diagnosis tools to check your heart health.
Your treatment plan depends on what is causing the palpitations. Some people do not need medical treatment, while others may benefit from medication or specialized procedures.
You may be able to stop palpitations by:
If a heart rhythm disorder is causing your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medicine to control your heart rate or rhythm.
Some arrhythmias can be treated with catheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that blocks abnormal electrical signals in the heart.
Your provider may recommend ongoing monitoring to track your symptoms and ensure your treatment plan is working effectively.
Healthy habits can reduce how often you experience palpitations.
At Banner Health, we provide expert care for all types of heart rhythm issues. Our cardiology and electrophysiology specialists use advanced diagnostic tools, wearable heart monitors and leading treatment options to identify the cause of your symptoms and create a personalized care plan.
Whether you're experiencing occasional palpitations or a complex heart rhythm disorder, our team is here to help you find answers and get back to living confidently. You can access our services at many convenient locations.
Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health specialist close to you.
Yes. Stress, anxiety and panic attacks can trigger heart palpitations. These symptoms often improve as your stress level decreases.
Occasional skipped or extra beats are common and are usually harmless. However, frequent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Seek emergency medical care if palpitations occur with chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath or severe dizziness.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include lifestyle changes, medications, monitoring or procedures such as catheter ablation.
Yes. Dehydration can make your heart work harder and may trigger a rapid heartbeat or irregular heart rhythm.
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