Why Do I Have Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations can be due to any number of problems both major and minor. First, let’s address what heart palpitations are. When you experience a heart palpitation, your heart will feel like it is either beating too hard and fast or skipping a beat and fluttering. You may be aware of these in your neck, throat, or chest area. These palpitations can sometimes be irritating or scary. Luckily, they are typically inconsequential and are no reason for alarm. They may be due to things like alcohol intake or anxiety.

In other cases, palpitations could be a sign of something wrong if you also experience short breath, dizziness, chest pain, or fainting. If that is the case, call your doctor immediately. Here we will focus mainly on what some of the chief causes of heart palpitations are.

The cause

• Strong emotions like stress, intense fear or anxiety. Some people have reported panic attacks.
• Participating in extremely strenuous physical activity.
• Low or high electrolyte levels.
• Drinking or eating large amounts of caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine. Consuming illegal drugs like cocaine and amphetamines.
• An existing medical condition such as low blood sugar, anemia, low blood pressure, fever, or dehydration or thyroid disease.
• Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menstruation or menopause. Palpitations while pregnant could be a sign of anemia.
• Taking medications like asthma inhalers, decongestants, diet pills.
• Certain herbal and nutritional pills or supplements.

Arrange a consultation today

If you are concerned about heart pain or heart palpitations, call Cardiovascular Associates of Mesa at 480-641-5400. We look forward to hearing from you so we can start today to address your concerns and help you heal. Remember if you have experienced fainting, dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath alongside your heart palpitations, please call us immediately so we can arrange an appointment to determine the cause.