What is a heart palpitaltion?

A palpitation is an extra beat, or beats, in your heart, so that you feel like your heart is racing, beating irregularly.

To understand what a heart palpitation is, it's important to have a basic understanding of how the heart works. The heart is a vital organ responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. It beats in a regular rhythm controlled by electrical signals.

A palpitation occurs when there is an irregularity in the heart's electrical system, causing the heart to beat faster or in an abnormal pattern. This extra beat or irregular rhythm can be felt as a fluttering, pounding, or racing sensation in the chest, and sometimes even in the neck or throat.

Heart palpitations can be caused by various factors, such as anxiety, stress, certain medications, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, hormonal changes, and underlying heart conditions. It's important to note that while palpitations can be unsettling, most of the time they are harmless and not a cause for significant concern.

If you experience frequent or severe palpitations, or if they are accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), to evaluate your heart's rhythm and identify any underlying conditions that may be causing the palpitations. Treatment options will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the palpitations.