Palpitations feel like fluttering, pounding, or skipped heartbeats.
Causes include arrhythmias, thyroid issues, stress, caffeine, and medications.
Dangerous if associated with dizziness, fainting, or chest pain.
Cardiologists use ECG, Holter monitoring, and echocardiograms to find the cause.
Dr. Sunny Malhotra provides arrhythmia evaluations in Brampton, Mississauga, and Milton.
Introduction
Almost everyone feels their heart “skip a beat” at some point, but frequent palpitations can be a sign of an underlying heart condition. In Brampton, Mississauga, and Milton, patients often come to my clinic worried about fluttering or racing heartbeats, not sure whether it’s serious. While palpitations are sometimes harmless, they may also indicate arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation that increase stroke risk if untreated.
What Do Palpitations Feel Like?
Patients describe palpitations as:
Rapid or racing heartbeat.
Fluttering or “butterflies” in the chest.
Skipped or extra beats.
Thumping sensation in the neck or chest.
Causes of Palpitations
Heart-Related Causes
Arrhythmias (AFib, SVT, PVCs, VT): Electrical misfires in the heart.
Coronary Artery Disease: Poor blood flow triggering rhythm changes.
Heart Valve Disorders: Leaky valves causing irregular rhythms.
Non-Heart Causes
Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or stimulants.
Stress and anxiety.
Thyroid disease.
Medications such as asthma inhalers or decongestants.
When Palpitations Are Dangerous
Seek urgent care if palpitations are accompanied by:
Chest pain or pressure.
Shortness of breath.
Dizziness or fainting.
A family history of sudden cardiac death.
How a Cardiologist Evaluates Palpitations
At Dr. Sunny Malhotra’s clinics in Brampton, Mississauga, and Milton, evaluation includes:
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Quick rhythm test.
Holter/Event Monitor: 24-hour to 14-day monitoring for irregular beats.
Echocardiogram: Ultrasound to check heart structure.
Blood Work: Thyroid, electrolytes, and other labs.
Treatment Options
Lifestyle changes: Reduce caffeine, stress, and alcohol.
Medications: Beta-blockers, anti-arrhythmics, or anticoagulants (in AFib).
Procedures: Ablation therapy for certain arrhythmias.
Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to ensure stability.
Conclusion
Palpitations are common but should not be ignored—especially if frequent or associated with other symptoms. Patients in Brampton, Mississauga, and Milton can see Dr. Sunny Malhotra for thorough evaluation and peace of mind.
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FAQ
Q1: Can stress cause palpitations?
Yes. Stress and anxiety often trigger harmless palpitations, but testing is needed to rule out heart causes.
Q2: Should I go to the ER if I faint during palpitations?
Yes. Fainting with palpitations may indicate a dangerous arrhythmia.
Q3: Are palpitations linked to stroke?
Yes, if caused by atrial fibrillation. Blood thinners may be needed to prevent stroke.
Q4: Can young people get arrhythmias?
Yes. Arrhythmias can occur at any age, even in healthy people.
Q5: How do I book an appointment?
Visit www.drsunnymalhotra.com or call the clinic in Brampton, Mississauga, or Milton.
