Palpitations

Overview

Palpitations refer to the sensation of an unusually fast, fluttering, pounding, or irregular heartbeat. Some describe it as a racing heart, skipped beats, or a feeling that the heart is flip-flopping in the chest. While occasional palpitations may be harmless, frequent or persistent episodes, especially when accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, may indicate an underlying cardiovascular issue such as an arrhythmia or structural heart problem.

At Cardiology Care NYC, we determine whether palpitations are linked to an underlying heart issue and create an individualized care plan.

Causes

Palpitations can result from changes in heart rhythm or increased stress on the heart.

Cardiac-related causes may include:

• Arrhythmias (irregular or rapid heartbeat)
• Atrial fibrillation or flutter
• Premature atrial or ventricular contractions
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
• Cardiomyopathy
• Valve disorders
• Coronary artery disease
• High blood pressure or heart strain

Other contributing factors may include stress, anxiety, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, certain medications, dehydration, anemia, thyroid imbalance, or electrolyte disturbances.

Symptoms

Palpitations can vary in intensity and frequency and may be felt even when at rest or during physical activity.

Common associated symptoms include:

• Rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat
• Feeling of skipped or extra beats
• Sensation of the heart racing or thumping
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Chest pain or tightness
• Near-fainting or fainting episodes (in more severe cases)

Seek assessment if palpitations are frequent, worsening, or occur with chest pain, fainting, or breathlessness.

Diagnosis

At Cardiology Care NYC, diagnosis focuses on identifying whether palpitations are caused by an arrhythmia, a structural heart issue, or an external trigger.

Diagnostic methods may include:

• Review of medical history and symptom patterns
• Physical examination and blood pressure monitoring
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to analyze the heart rhythm and electrical activity
• Holter monitoring or event monitoring to detect intermittent irregularities
• Echocardiogram to assess heart structure and pumping function
• Stress testing to measure cardiac response during exertion
• Comprehensive cardiovascular screening to evaluate risk factors

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and focuses on restoring rhythm stability, reducing triggers, and preventing future episodes.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Reduce intake of caffeine, alcohol, and stimulants
• Stay hydrated and manage stress levels
• Maintain a regular sleep routine
• Engage in light-to-moderate exercise under guidance
• Avoid smoking and recreational substances

Medications

If needed, medications may be prescribed to:

• Stabilize heart rhythm
• Maintain appropriate heart rate
• Minimize the frequency of episodes
• Manage related conditions, such as elevated blood pressure

Ongoing Care

Regular follow-up helps track rhythm changes, adjust treatment, and prevent recurrence. Ongoing monitoring may include rhythm tracking, cardiovascular risk control, and long-term heart health maintenance.

When To See A Doctor

Schedule a cardiology consultation if you experience:

• Frequent or persistent palpitations
• A rapid heartbeat that occurs unexpectedly
• Palpitations accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath
• Episodes associated with dizziness, fatigue, or fainting
• Heart rhythm sensations that interfere with daily activities

At Cardiology Care NYC, we provide expert care to determine the cause of palpitations, stabilize heart rhythm, and protect long-term cardiovascular health.