- Heart palpitations are sensations of a fast, fluttering, or skipped heartbeat that can be alarming but are not always dangerous.
- While occasional palpitations may be benign, frequent or prolonged episodes can signal arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, or other heart conditions.
- Recognizing associated symptoms—dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath—is crucial for early evaluation.
- Dr. Sunny Malhotra offers advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans for patients in Brampton, Mississauga, Caledon and Milton.
- This blog explains what palpitations feel like, their causes, warning signs, and the importance of timely cardiology care.
🫀 What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations are the feeling of your heart racing, skipping beats, or fluttering. They can occur during activity, rest, or even while lying in bed. Common patient descriptions include:
- “My heart suddenly flutters or pounds”
- “It feels like my heart skips a beat”
- “My heartbeat feels irregular or out of rhythm”
Palpitations are often noticeable and can cause anxiety or concern, especially if they occur unexpectedly.
🔍 Common Triggers of Palpitations
Palpitations may have benign causes, including:
- Stress, anxiety, or panic attacks
- Excessive caffeine or energy drinks
- Alcohol or nicotine
- Fever or dehydration
- Certain medications or supplements
- Exercise or intense physical activity
These triggers usually cause short-lived episodes that resolve on their own. However, persistent or severe palpitations may indicate an underlying heart problem.
❤️ Heart-Related Causes of Palpitations
Some palpitations are associated with cardiac conditions, which require evaluation:
1. Arrhythmias
- Irregular heart rhythms can reduce blood flow and cause palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.
- Examples include atrial fibrillation (AFib), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), and ventricular tachycardia (VT).
2. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
- AFib causes irregular, often rapid heartbeat and increases stroke risk if untreated.
- Symptoms may include fluttering, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
3. Heart Valve Disease
- Faulty heart valves can strain the heart, leading to irregular rhythms and palpitations.
4. Coronary Artery Disease
- Reduced blood flow to the heart may trigger palpitations, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath during activity.
🚨 When to Seek Medical Attention
While occasional palpitations are often harmless, you should seek immediate care if palpitations are accompanied by:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting
- Rapid, sustained heartbeat
- Swelling in legs or ankles
These symptoms could indicate serious cardiac conditions that require urgent evaluation.
🩺 How Dr. Malhotra Evaluates Palpitations
Dr. Malhotra uses a comprehensive approach to identify the cause of palpitations:
- Detailed History & Physical Exam
Understanding the frequency, triggers, and associated symptoms. - Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Records the heart’s electrical activity and detects rhythm abnormalities. - Holter Monitor
Continuous 24–48 hour monitoring to capture intermittent palpitations. - Event Monitor
Extended monitoring for palpitations that occur less frequently. - Echocardiogram
Evaluates heart structure, valves, and pumping function. - Stress Test
Observes heart rhythm during controlled physical activity. - Blood Tests
Checks for thyroid issues, electrolyte imbalance, or cardiac markers.
🌆 Palpitations Awareness in Brampton, Mississauga, and Milton
Many patients in these areas ignore palpitations, thinking they are stress-related or minor. Early evaluation can:
- Prevent arrhythmia complications like stroke or heart failure
- Reduce anxiety related to unexplained symptoms
- Guide personalized treatment, including medications, lifestyle adjustments, or procedures
Dr. Malhotra combines advanced diagnostics with patient-centered care to ensure every patient gets an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
💡 Self-Monitoring Tips
Before your cardiology visit, it helps to:
- Track frequency and duration of palpitations
- Note triggers (stress, caffeine, exercise)
- Record associated symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath
- Bring a list of medications you take, including supplements
These details help Dr. Malhotra pinpoint the cause and tailor treatment.
✨ Conclusion
Heart palpitations can range from harmless to serious. Occasional fluttering is often benign, but persistent or severe palpitations—especially with chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath—warrant a cardiology evaluation.
Patients in Brampton, Mississauga, Caledon and Milton experiencing palpitations should seek care with Dr. Sunny Malhotra, who provides expert diagnostics and individualized treatment to protect your heart and improve quality of life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are palpitations always dangerous?
A: No, many are harmless, but persistent or symptomatic palpitations require evaluation.
Q: Can anxiety cause palpitations?
A: Yes, stress and panic attacks can trigger palpitations, but heart causes should always be ruled out.
Q: How are palpitations treated?
A: Treatment depends on the cause—options include lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures to regulate heart rhythm.
Q: Will a regular ECG detect palpitations?
A: Not always. Holter or event monitors may be needed to capture intermittent episodes.
Q: When should I call 911 for palpitations?
A: If palpitations come with chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, seek emergency care immediately.
