What are Palpitations

Palpitations are feelings that your heartbeat is not normal. Your heartbeat may feel like it is:

• Uneven.
• Faster than normal.
• Fluttering.
• Skipping a beat.

This is usually not a serious problem. In some cases, you may need tests to rule out any serious problems.

Follow these instructions at home:

Pay attention to any changes in your condition. Take these actions to help manage your symptoms:

Eating and drinking

• Avoid:
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks.
  • Chocolate.
  • Alcohol.
  • Diet pills.

Lifestyle

• Try to lower your stress. These things can help you relax:
  • Yoga.
  • Deep breathing and meditation.
  • Exercise.
  • Using words and images to create positive thoughts (guided imagery).
  • Using your mind to control things in your body (biofeedback).
• Do not use drugs.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep. Keep a regular bed time.

General instructions

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important. You may need more tests if palpitations do not go away or get worse.

Contact a doctor if:

• Your symptoms last more than 24 hours.
• Your symptoms occur more often.

Get help right away if you:

• Have chest pain.
• Feel short of breath.
• Have a very bad headache.
• Feel dizzy.
• Pass out (faint).

Summary

• Palpitations are feelings that your heartbeat is uneven or faster than normal. It may feel like your heart is fluttering or skipping a beat.
• Avoid food and drinks that may cause palpitations. These include caffeine, chocolate, and alcohol.
• Try to lower your stress. Do not smoke or use drugs.
• Get help right away if you faint or have chest pain, shortness of breath, a severe headache, or dizziness.