Causes of Heart Palpitations
Heart palpitations are any unpleasant awareness of ones heart beat, the feeling of skipped or stopped beats or the sensation of pounding or racing of the heart. Our hearts normally beat at around 60 to 100bpm and we are not generally aware of them beating away in our chests. Unusually forceful or apparent heart beats are what most people would refer to as palpitations.
It should be remembered that most instances of heart palpitations are not serious. One of the most common causes today is stress and the effects can be alleviated by resting. However it is important to verify that your heart palpitations are not caused by an abnormal heart rhythm, referred to as arrhythmia. If you have heart palpitation concerns you should always get yourself checked by a doctor.
Most instances of heart palpitations are caused by:
Exertion and exercise
Stress and anxiety
Fear and fright
Stimulants such as coffee, tea, caffeine drinks and nicotine
Drugs such as cocaine and amphetamine
Heart Disease
Over active thyroid
Hyperventilation
If you experience heart palpitations it is always important to consult your doctor in order to determine the potential cause. You can help your doctor by recording exactly when you experience the sensation, how long the palpitations last and what you perceive as occurring (increased heart rate, missed beats, extra beats etc.) They may refer you to a Cardiology Consultant who will determine whether there are any abnormalities that may be causing the sensations and then plan appropriate treatment.
Once again it is worth remembering that most cases of heart palpitations are totally alleviated by rest, relaxation and avoiding stimulating drinks such as coffee and tea. So try sitting calmly until the palpitations subside and don’t drink too much tea or coffee.