can vicks vaporub cause heart palpitations?

When to Worry about Heart Palpitations l Podcast l Vejthani Hospital

Palpitations are symptoms of everything from short or long-term stress to a variety of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). They may feel alarming, but do not always reflect a serious heart condition.  Joseph Marine, M.D., vice-director of the Division of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins, starts his evaluation by asking his patients what they hear.

What are palpitations?

Palpitations are characterized as a general or heightened awareness of your own heartbeat – whether it’s too fast, too slow, or otherwise irregular. You might feel like your heart is thumping, racing, or fluttering. And you could feel this sensation in your chest or your neck.

“I ask them to tap out what their heartbeat feels like. Then I get a sense of whether we’re dealing with isolated skipped beats or a more sustained arrhythmia,” says Marine. “Patients frequently will feel their skipped beats more at night, when they’re lying in bed and nothing is distracting them from it.”

Diagnosing palpitations

Palpitations can occur for a variety of reasons unrelated to heart disease. These include:

Overexertion

Stress

Caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, or diet pills

Overactive thyroid

Hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause

Low blood pressure

Heart disease or abnormal heart valves

The body’s response to medications such as thyroid pills, cold medicines, and asthma drugs

Palpitations can also result from a range of heart arrhythmias. These are classified by location, and type of heartbeat. A few common types:

Supraventricular tachycardia – A rapid heart rate originating above the ventricles (lower heart chambers). It can cause the heart to beat very quickly or erratically. Symptoms might include an overly fast pulse and dizziness.

Atrial fibrillation – The most common type of arrhythmia, an atrial fibrillation can result in a rapid and erratic heartbeat, which may interfere with blood flow to the ventricles and possibly lead to serious clotting conditions or stroke. Symptoms might not exist at all, or involve chest pain, palpitations, or shortness of breath.

Ventricular tachycardia – A rapid heartbeat originating in the ventricles (lower heart chambers). When associated with structural heart disease, this arrhythmia may cause loss of consciousness and, in some cases, cardiac arrest or sudden death.

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Separating serious palpitations from harmless ones

It’s important to differentiate palpitations caused by stress or minor arrhythmias from those that may point to an underlying heart disease. Inconveniently, palpitations don’t always occur during the time you’re with your doctor.

Marine recommends coordinating an electrocardiogram (ECG) with the irregular heart beat symptoms the patient is having by using a Holter or event monitor.

A Holter monitor is a portable machine you would carry in your pocket or small pouch around your neck or waist for 24 to 48 hours. Electrodes connect your chest to the monitor wires to record your heart rhythms.

An event monitor records heart rhythms for a longer span of time (about a month). The patient activates the monitor whenever he or she experiences an irregular heartbeat.

Causes & management for heart palpitations with indigestion & gas problems - Dr. Malathi Ramesh

Treating palpitations

Depending on the severity of the symptoms and underlying cause of the palpitation, your doctor will typically recommend one of three treatment options:

Preventive care (for non-severe palpitations) – Try eliminating smoking, excess caffeine, and alcohol from your daily regimen; practice general deep breathing and yoga; get plenty of sleep and exercise; regularly schedule “you” time.

Medications – Your physician might prescribe antiarrhythmic drugs such as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers, both of which have a safe track record. Occasionally these drugs don’t work effectively and stronger antiarrhythmic drugs that directly act on the sodium and potassium channels of the heart might be necessary.

Catheter ablation – Small wires are threaded through the leg veins into the heart to trigger an arrhythmia, identify the cause, and cauterize the problem area. This treatment is highly effective when the physician can identify an arrhythmia in a specific region of the heart (such as supraventricular tachycardia).

Other outpatient procedures include cardioversion (electric shock sent to the chest wall to synchronize the heartbeat to a normal rhythm), and an implantable defibrillator (a special type of pacemaker that automatically detects and terminates ventricular arrhythmias associated with heart disease).

Sometimes comfort and reassurance are the best medicine

“While palpitations can sometimes signal a more serious condition, they’re often just a sensation of a normal heartbeat,” says Marine. “Confirming that nothing is seriously wrong is sometimes all a person needs. Relaxation techniques and reassurance from a physician – I find that both are very helpful when the cause of palpitations is benign.”

women cardiovascular health center - diverse group of women walking outside

Johns Hopkins Wome

Heart palpitations are heartbeats that suddenly become more noticeable.

Your heart may feel like it's pounding, fluttering or beating irregularly, often for just a few seconds or minutes. You may also feel these sensations in your throat or neck.

Palpitations may seem alarming, but in most cases they're harmless and are not a sign of a serious problem.

Sometimes you may feel an extra or missed beat. These are known as ectopic beats and are also usually nothing to worry about.

Causes of heart palpitations

Causes of heart palpitations include:

lifestyle triggers

emotions and psychological triggers

medicines

hormone changes

heart rhythm problems

heart conditions

other medical conditions

Lifestyle triggers

Common triggers of heart palpitations include:

strenuous exercise

not getting enough sleep

drinks containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea and energy drinks

alcohol

smoking

illegal drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, amphetamines, ecstasy and cannabis

rich or spicy foods

In these cases, the palpitations should go away on their own. Avoiding these triggers may help stop them from coming back.

Heart Palpitations, Shortness of Breath, but your heart is fine?

Emotional or psychological triggers

Heart palpitations are also often caused by emotions or psychological issues, such as:

excitement or nervousness

stress or anxiety

panic attacks – an overwhelming sense of anxiety or fear, accompanied by feeling sick, sweating, trembling and palpitations

Doing breathing exercises and learning how to deal with a panic attack may help if you're feeling stressed, anxious or panicked.

Medicines

Palpitations can occasionally be triggered by some medicines, including:

asthma inhalers, such as salbutamol and ipratropium bromide

high blood pressure (hypertension) medicines, such as hydralazine and minoxidil

antihistamines, such as terfenadine

antibiotics, such as clarithromycin and erythromycin

antidepressants, such as citalopram and escitalopram

antifungal medicines, such as itraconazole

Speak to a GP if you think a medicine may be causing your heart palpitations. But do not stop taking a prescribed treatment without first getting medical advice.

Hormone changes

Heart palpitations in women can sometimes be the result of hormonal changes that happen during:

periods

pregnancy

the menopause 

In these cases, the palpitations are usually temporary and not a cause for concern.

Heart rhythm problems

Palpitations are sometimes caused by a problem with the heart rhythm (arrhythmia), such as:

atrial fibrillation – this is the most common type, where the heart beats irregularly and faster than normal

atrial flutter – a fast and irregular heartbeat

supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) – abnormally fast heart rate

ventricular tachycardia – a more serious condition where the regular heartbeat is typically fast. It can be associated with dizziness or blackouts

Heart conditions

Some palpitations may be associated with other types of heart conditions, such as:

a problem with the heart valves, such as mitral valve prolapse

hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – where the heart muscle and walls of the heart become enlarged and thickened

heart failure – where the heart is unable to pump blood around the body properly

congenital heart disease – birth defects that affect the normal workings of the heart

Some of these conditions can be serious and often require treatment.

Other medical conditions

Other conditions that can cause heart palpitations include:

an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) – where the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormones

a low blood sugar level (hypoglycaemia) – this is most commonly associated with diabetes

types of anaemia, which affects the red blood cells

postural or orthostatic hypotension – dizziness and low blood pressure triggered by changing position (such as standing up)

a high temperature

dehydration

When to see a GP

You do not usually need to see a GP if the palpitations pass quickly and only happen occasionally. They're unlikely to be caused by a serious problem and probably will not need treatment.

When to Take Palpitations Seriously and Visit the Doctor? | Dr. Vivek Chaturvedi

But it's a good idea to see a GP if:

the palpitations last a long time, do not improve or get worse

you have a history of heart problems

you're concerned about the palpitations

To help find the cause, a GP may:

ask about your symptoms and medical history

arrange a blood test

carry out an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart rate (if the GP has the equipment available)

If you cannot have an ECG at the GP surgery or the GP wants to arrange heart monitoring over a longer time period, you may be referred for tests at a local hospital.

When to get emergency help

Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E if you have heart palpitations and any of the following symptoms:

severe shortness of breath

chest pain or tightness

dizziness or light-headedness

fainting or blackouts

These symptoms could indicate a serious or potentially life-threatening heart problem that should be checked by a doctor straight away.

What can I drink for heart problems?

Here are 6 nutritious beverages to boost heart health.

Pomegranate juice

According to experts, pomegranates are uniquely healthy fruits for your heart. Their special antioxidants help prevent hardening and narrowing of the arteries that bring blood to your heart. Pomegranates also help decrease blood pressure, and are packed with polyphenols: micronutrients that lower inflammation and stimulate circulation. Bonus: Juices like pomegranate or those from other dark fruits such as Concord grapes can give you all the heart-health benefits of red wine without the alcohol.

Coffee

Studies have shown that people who drink 3-5 cups of coffee per day have a significantly lower risk of heart disease, stroke and heart failure. Every extra cup of coffee up to 6 per day reduced these conditions by 5-8%. Why? Experts believe coffee’s caffeine content, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties may be responsible. However, drinking too much coffee may make you jittery, so go slowly, and avoid creamers high in saturated fat, sugar and empty calories.

Tea

Tea is packed with phytonutrients (plant chemicals) called flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and buildup in your arteries. Black and green tea also contain more moderate amounts of caffeine than coffee (about half the amount per cup), so it’s a great option for people who are sensitive to that. Bonus: You get the same health benefits from drinking it hot or cold, so it’s a versatile beverage you can enjoy year-round.

Tomato juice

Tomato juice is rich in vitamins and minerals that help fight heart disease. It’s packed with vitamins C and E, iron, magnesium and potassium, which your body needs to keep blood flowing and to remove extra sodium from your body. Tomatoes are also an incredible source of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps strengthen your arteries, reduces cholesterol and reduces heart disease risk. If you buy packaged tomato juice, look for low-sodium and low-sugar options. Bonus: Some experts believe that the process of juicing tomatoes gives you all the advantages of eating tomatoes and releases even more beneficial compounds than you’d get from eating them raw.

Green juice

Vegetable juice mixes are a great option for people who know they need to eat vegetables but don’t love the taste. Try mixing heart-healthy green veggies with fruits and natural sweeteners like honey. To start, pick a juice that’s heavy on apples, oranges or citrus and includes spinach or kale, both of which are heart-healthy superfoods thanks to their high levels of calcium, iron and inflammation-reducing flavonoids. If you do add juice to your routine, make sure to account for the extra calories elsewhere in your diet.

Smoothies

Smoothies can be very heart-healthy — if they’re made with the right ingredients. If you like things on the sweeter side, start with dark-skinned fruits such as blueberry or pomegranate. If you like things more tart, try green lemonade. For maximum impact, consider a mix of superfoods such as spinach and chia seeds, which are full of heart-protecting omega-3s. As with juice, as long as the smoothies are made with ingredients like mango or banana, they’re a palatable way to work health food into almost any diet.

Do bananas lower heart rate?

High blood pressure is dangerous. It can lead to many health problems, including heart attack, stroke, heart failure, angina, coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, kidney disease, vision loss, sexual dysfunction and more.

Fortunately, high blood pressure can often be prevented or controlled.

How to diagnose your own palpitations

Here are some easy things you can do to lower your blood pressure or help prevent high blood pressure in the first place.

Exercise. Doctors recommend at least 150 minutes per week of exercise to help reduce blood pressure. Brisk walking is excellent for reducing blood pressure and improving overall cardiovascular health, but other exercises can work too. Try jogging, riding a bike, swimming, dancing, or interval training to get your aerobic exercise. Strength training is also important to your heart health and can help reduce blood pressure.

Eat a heart-healthy diet. Eating a well-balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds that is also low in sodium, saturated fat, added sugar, and cholesterol is important for your heart. There is a diet specifically geared toward lowering blood pressure. It’s called the DASH diet, which stands for dietary approaches to stop hypertension. Talk to your doctor or make an appointment with a dietitian if you need help making changes to your diet.

Eat potassium- and magnesium-rich foods. Potassium can help regulate your heart rate and can reduce the effect that sodium has on your blood pressure. Foods like bananas, melons, oranges, apricots, avocados, dairy, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tuna, salmon, beans, nuts, and seeds have lots of potassium.  Magnesium is thought to help blood vessels relax, making it easier for blood to pass through. Foods rich in magnesium include vegetables, dairy, chicken, legumes, and whole grains. It’s better to get vitamins and minerals from food, and a heart-healthy diet like the one we described above is a good way to ensure you get plenty of nutrients. However, you may want to talk to your doctor about whether taking certain supplements might help your blood pressure.

Reduce sodium in your diet. One easy way to reduce your sodium intake is to limit or avoid processed foods, such lunch meats, hot dogs, bacon, frozen dinners, canned vegetables with added salt, and that sort of thing. Most packaged convenience foods, like macaroni and cheese, soups, side dishes, pizzas, and other multi-ingredient foods have a lot of added sodium. Start reading labels and pay attention to the sodium content. You should aim for 1500mg or less every day.

Limit your alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol can raise blood pressure, and drinking more than one alcoholic beverage per day may raise your blood pressure and increase your risk for hypertension.

Reduce the stress in your life. Long-term stress can lead to high blood pressure. There are small lifestyle changes you can make to both combat stress and to manage the effects of it in healthy ways. Exercise, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing, meditating, praying, journaling, laughing, listening to music, spending time with family and friends, and playing with animals can all help reduce your stress and lower blood pressure. Learn about more tips for reducing stress.

Eat dark chocolate. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are both full of heart-healthy plant compounds called flavonoids. Flavonoids are good for you because they cause your blood vessels to dilate, which can help lower blood pressure. Just make sure your chocolate doesn’t have too much sugar. Choose chocolate that is at least 70 percent dark for best results. You can buy individually wrapped chocolate pieces that are the perfect size. Eat one or two a day and enjoy the delicious heart-protective effects.

Eat berries. Berries have many health benefits, and one of them is improving blood pressure and reducing other heart disease risks. Berries, like strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, have lots of polyphenols, which are great for your heart. They’re also really tasty. So, load up on the berries for better blood pressure. If you don’t like eating them all the time, try adding them to a smoothie made with low-fat or fat-free yogurt without added sugar. Throw in some ice, banana, and low-fat milk for a heart-healthy treat.

Reduce processed sugar and refined carbohydrates. Many studies have shown a link between high blood pressure and processed sugar. Even moderate amounts of sugar can raise blood pressure. For example, during the Framingham Women’s Health Study, women who drank as little as one soda per day had higher blood pressure than women who drank less. It’s not just sweet sugar that raises blood pressure. Refined carbohydrates, like white bread and pasta, covert to sugar quickly when they’re eaten, and they may also cause blood pressure to rise. There is evidence that reducing refined sugar intake can lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

Hug people – and pets. There is evidence that hugging people can lower your blood pressure. A similar effect can occur from cuddling with pets or even just petting them.

There are other important things you can do to reduce your blood pressure and improve your health, but they may take a bit more effort than the ten things listed above.

Quitting smoking and staying away from secondhand smoke is vital to your health, and it’s a great way to lower your blood pressure. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about how to quit. Then quit. It’s one of the best things you can do to get healthy and reduce your risk of serious health problems.

Heart Attack: One Woman's Survival Story

Another important step is to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight elevates your risk for high blood pressure and many other diseases and conditions. Losing just 5 percent of your body weight can have a significant positive impact on your blood pressure. Studies have shown that the combination of exercising and losing weight improves blood pressure numbers even more than either one alone. It may seem daunting to lose weight, but it is possible. Talk to your doctor about how other people have done it. And consider seeing a weight loss counselor too. You can do this! And after only a few pounds of healthy weight loss, you should start seeing your blood pressure numbers drop.

Set small, easily attainable goals, and when you reach them, set bigger ones. Step by step, you will take control of your health and your blood pressure.

Is garlic good for palpitation?

Garlic contains a natural chemical called allicin, which breaks down into a substance called allicin when the herb is cut, chewed, or mashed. Allicin turns into several compounds, including hydrogen sulfide, which is responsible for the herb’s unmistakable smell and taste. It’s believed that allicin and other natural compounds in garlic relax blood vessels and have anti-inflammatory effects, which may lower blood pressure and benefit heart health.

mike bohl

Reviewed by Mike Bohl, MD, MPH

Written by Michael Martin

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Garlic’s role in heart health

Additional benefits of garlic

How to take garlic for heart health

Side effects and potential risks

DISCLAIMER

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Garlic—that bane of vampires and daters—might be worth embracing for your health. The white bulbous herb, also known as allium sativum, is a cousin of the onion, leek, and chive. For thousands of years, garlic has been used as a seasoning; some cultures have also used it for medicinal purposes to treat a wide range of conditions.

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Garlic’s role in heart health

Garlic contains a natural chemical called allicin, which breaks down into a substance called allicin when the herb is cut, chewed, or mashed. Allicin turns into several compounds, including hydrogen sulfide, which is responsible for the herb’s unmistakable smell and taste. It’s believed that allicin and other natural compounds in garlic relax blood vessels and have anti-inflammatory effects, which may lower blood pressure and benefit heart health. 

In studies, researchers have found that garlic may have several health benefits. But reviews of the research note that further study is needed to confirm the effects of garlic on heart health. While we describe many of the potential benefits of garlic below, it is important to keep in mind that these studies may have only been conducted in animals, in a few people, or in people with specific health conditions. As a result, it is likely these benefits would not be seen by everybody taking garlic supplements.

Garlic may improve cholesterol levels

Consuming more garlic might have beneficial effects for people who’ve been diagnosed with high cholesterol. A meta-analysis of 26 studies found that garlic was superior to placebo in reducing levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides (a type of fat) in the blood (Zeng, 2012). Garlic is believed to reduce buildup on the walls of arteries that can cause the clogging that leads to cardiovascular diseases like heart attack or stroke (Banerjee 2002). 

Garlic may reduce blood pressure

According to a review of studies published in Nutrition Journal, increased consumption of garlic is associated with a lower incidence of hypertension (high blood pressure) (Banerjee, 2002). Garlic seems to increase the body’s production of nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscles and widens blood vessels, causing blood to flow more freely and reducing blood pressure.

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Garlic may prevent blood clots

In one study of people with peripheral occlusive arterial disease, patients who took an 800 mg garlic powder supplement for 12 weeks experienced a “significant decrease” in the thickness of their blood (Banerjee, 2002). Another study found that people with coronary artery disease taking a garlic powder supplement had less “platelet aggregation,” or blood cells sticking together. Thick, sticky blood can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart problems (Assmann, 2010). 

Garlic may regulate heart rate

In animal studies, garlic has been found to have a “significant antiarrhythmic effect” (Banerjee, 2002), stabilizing irregular heartbeats. In humans, atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that is linked to an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart failure, among other cardiovascular issues.

Additional benefits of garlic

Garlic might fight disease

Garlic has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, and researchers believe it can strengthen the immune system (Arreola, 2015), decreasing inflammation and stimulating the production of “killer cells,” which are agents in the body that combat infection. 

Garlic may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

Garlic may have positive effects on memory. That was the conclusion of a recent study at the University of Louisville, in which researchers fed 24-month-old mice (the equivalent of 56- to 69-year-old humans) allyl sulfide, a compound found in garlic. They found the mice had better short- and long-term memory skills than those who didn’t take the compound. The scientists speculate that garlic may be able to turn up the expression of a gene, NDNF, which affects memory (Gander, 2019).   

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Garlic may improve athletic performance

Garlic is a vasodilator, which causes blood vessels to relax and improves blood flow. Other natural vasodilators, like beet juice, have been found to improve athletic performance, and garlic may have promise in that area: In one study, college endurance athletes who took a garlic powder supplement before running had a “significant increase” in maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) and endurance performance time five hours later (Inal, 2000).

Garlic detoxifies heavy metals

Clinical studies show that the sulfur present in garlic may be able to detoxify heavy metals in the body, including preventing cadmium-induced kidney damage and decreasing oxidative damage from lead (Sears, 2013). One study found that employees of a car battery plant who took a garlic supplement for 12 weeks had 19% less lead in their blood, and experienced fewer symptoms of lead poisoning, than workers who took the drug D-penicillamine, which is a medication commonly used in cases of heavy metal poisoning (Kianoush, 2012).

Garlic may improve bone health

Animal studies have found that taking a garlic oil supplement increased the bone density of mice who had low levels of estrogen (Mukherjee, 2004). Osteoporosis is a particular risk for women after menopause when estrogen levels decline.

How to take garlic for heart health

If you’re looking to reap the beneficial effects of garlic, first, you can increase your garlic consumption by adding more raw garlic to your diet. You can add fresh garlic to salads, egg scrambles, healthy dressings and sauces, and meat dishes. Or if you’re feeling hardcore, you can eat whole garlic cloves.

You can also take garlic supplements, which come in many forms. Garlic pills may include garlic powder or aged garlic extract (like Kyolic). Garlic oil is also available. Always exercise caution when choosing dietary supplements—because they’re not regulated as pharmaceuticals are, purity and quality isn’t guaranteed. This also means there is no known “ideal” amount to ingest per day to see the health benefits.

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Side effects and potential risks

Like just about everything, garlic can be toxic if it’s taken in high doses. The Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health says that garlic is safe at the amounts naturally present in food but doesn’t advise on the tolerable upper limit for garlic supplements.

Side effects of consuming garlic can include breath and body odor, heartburn, and other digestive upset. Some people might have an allergic reaction to garlic.

Taking garlic supplements may increase the risk of bleeding. If you take a blood-thinning medication such as warfarin (brand name Coumadin), tell your healthcare provider if you plan to take garlic dietary supplements. Garlic has also been found to lessen the effectiveness of some drugs, including saquinavir, which is used to treat HIV.

Is Ginger good for heart palpitations?

The knotty, twisted underground stem of the ginger plant (Zingiber officinale ) has been used as a spice and a drug in China for the last 25 centuries. Chinese sailors chewed pieces of it to relieve their seasickness thousands of years ago. Today ginger is a leading folk remedy for nausea and digestive problems as well as a flavoring for food and drinks throughout the world.

What is it good for?

In the past two decades, a handful of studies in the United States and Europe have examined ginger's effects, and the results have been convincing enough for the German government to approve it as a treatment for motion sickness and indigestion. Research findings with regard to motion sickness are mixed, however, as is evidence of its efficacy in treating nausea caused by chemotherapy or surgery.

Studies of gingers effect on morning sickness have been very promising. Several studies have found that ginger is effective for treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. A 2007 study of 126 pregnant women found it to be even more effective than vitamin B6, with fewer side effects.

How does it work?

Researchers are not yet sure how ginger prevents nausea. Compounds in ginger might work on the stomach and possibly on the inner ear, where motion sickness originates. Other compounds might have anti-inflammatory effects, although it is unclear whether ginger is effective for treating people with arthritis. Ginger has a big advantage over other motion sickness drugs: In normal doses it doesn't cause any of their nasty side effects, such as drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, and heart palpitations.

How safe is it?

Ginger has an excellent safety record in humans. In high doses it may cause sleepiness or heart palpitations. It may also thin the blood. To be safe, don't use it if you are already taking prescription anti-coagulants such as Coumadin (Warfarin).

HEART PALPITATIONS & SLEEP

What's the best way to take it?

Powdered ginger is available in capsule or liquid extract form. If you want to try it to prevent motion sickness, a typical dose is two 500 mg capsules 30 minutes before traveling and one or two more after four hours if you begin to feel nauseated. Keep in mind that the government does not regulate herbal remedies, so quality and potency can vary from product to product. Asian food markets and many natural food stores sell crystallized or candied ginger; an inch-square slice is roughly equivalent to a standard 500 mg capsule. Ginger tea is a less potent option. You can make it by chopping up a two-inch section of fresh ginger and steeping it in water for about 15 minutes; it's good with honey and lemon. You can also try ginger ale, but make sure it's made with real ginger.

What tea is good for heart palpitations?

Everyone experiences palpitations from time to time. If you are the kind of person who takes on too much stress or gets anxious about an upcoming event, your heart beats faster in response.

HT Image

HT Image

Updated on Jan 19, 2012 03:01 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByDr Anjali Mukerjee, Mumbai

Everyone experiences palpitations from time to time. If you are the kind of person who takes on too much stress or gets anxious about an upcoming event, your heart beats faster in response.

Many individuals take time to gain control and realise this as being a serious episode of palpitations. Palpitations are irregular, arrhythmic or forceful beatings of the heart. Feeling you heart racing is a common sign of anxiety and impulsiveness, but certain other kinds of recurrent and severe palpitations are indicative of serious heart issues like tachycardia (rapid heart beats, more than 100 beats per minute), bradycardia (slow heart beats, less than 60 beats per minute), fibrillations (rapid, irregular heart beats).

Palpitations usually occur due to emotional outbursts like anxiety, stress, fear, shock, panic, vigorous exercise and increased caffeine intake. Certain phases of fetal development during the pregnancy could also cause palpitations. Medical conditions like hyperthyroid, low blood sugar, low potassium level, low oxygen level or low carbon dioxide level as well as high level of carbon dioxide in the blood increases palpitations. Fever, anemia, dehydration, loss of blood could also be underlined as causes of palpitations. Medications like asthma inhalers and decongestants, beta blockers (taken for high blood pressure), thyroid and anti-arrhythmic medications, can cause irregular heart beats.

It is important to balance the levels of electrolytes in the body. Electrolytes like sodium and potassium, along with minerals like calcium and magnesium help maintain regular heart beat. Palpitations usually occur when the above minerals are not in balanced levels. Hydration of the body is important for maintaining correct electrolyte levels of the body. Keep your body hydrated at all times. Here are a few other suggestions:

1.Take calcium with magnesium supplements. It helps stabilise heart beats.

2. Coenzyme Q10 is also beneficial for reducing the palpitations.

3. If you are intolerant to milk, eggs and wheat, it may be giving you palpitations.

4. Indian spices like powdered aniseed (saunf) and powdered dry coriander can also be consumed for palpitations. Peppermint tea is shown to have a soothing effect on palpitations and acts as a relaxant to the mind and body.

5. Avoid the intake of caffeine and other stimulants. Tea, coffee, carbonated beverages, alcohol and chocolate should be avoided.

6. Do not smoke or drink if you suffer from palpitations.

7. Avoid heavy meals at night. Heavy drinking, fried foods also strain the heart.

8. Apart from the diet, some lifestyle changes are neccesary. Learn the art of relaxation through yoga. Meditation helps calm the mind for anxiety related palpitations.

9. Try aroma therapy massage. It is very relaxing.

10. Use a few drops of lavender, ylang ylang essential oils in your bath or inhale it directly from the bottle. It has a relaxing effect on the mind.

Mostly, heart palpitations are harmless. However if you experience them frequently it may indicate a problem.

 Does drinking water help heart palpitations?

Do you ever feel like your heart is pounding or fluttering much faster than normal? Maybe it’s like your heart is skipping beats, or you feel your pulse in your neck and chest. You may be experiencing heart palpitations.

Heart palpitations may last for only a few seconds, and they can occur at any time. This includes when you’re moving around, sitting or lying down, or standing still.

The good news is that not all cases of fast heartbeat mean you have a heart condition. Sometimes the palpitations are caused by things that make your heart work harder, like:

What causes heart palpitations or a heart flutter?

stress

illness

dehydration

exercise

Other causes may include:

pregnancy

caffeine

other medical conditions

certain medications

illegal drugs

tobacco products

Keep reading to learn 10 ways you can manage heart palpitations at home, when you should see your doctor, and tips for a healthy heart.

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1. Try relaxation techniques

Stress can trigger or worsen heart palpitations. That’s because stress and excitement can spike your adrenaline.

Managing your stress through relaxation can help. Good options include:

meditation

tai chi

yoga

Try sitting cross-legged and taking a slow breath in through your nostrils and then out through your mouth. Repeat until you feel calm.

You should also focus on relaxing throughout the day, not just when you feel palpitations or a racing heart. Stop and take five deep breaths every 1 to 2 hours to help calm your mind and keep you relaxed.

Keeping your general stress levels low can help you avoid episodes of fast heartbeat and lower your resting heart rate over time. Biofeedback and guided imagery are also effective options.

2. Do vagal maneuvers

The vagus nerve has many functions, including connecting your brain to your heart. Vagal maneuvers stimulate the vagus nerve and may help regulate fast heartbeat. You can stimulate the vagus nerve at home, but you should get a doctor’s approval first.

Here are a few ways you can stimulate the nerve:

Take a cold shower, splash cold water on your face, or apply a cold towel or ice pack to your face for 20 to 30 seconds. The “shock” of the cold water helps stimulate the nerve.

Chant the word “om” or cough or gag.

Hold your breath or bear down like you’re having a bowel movement.

For best results, perform these maneuvers while laying on your back. Your doctor can show you how to perform them correctly.

3. Drink enough water

Dehydration can cause heart palpitations. That’s because your blood contains water, so when you become dehydrated, your blood can become thicker. The thicker your blood is, the harder your heart has to work to move it through your veins. That can increase your pulse rate and potentially lead to palpitations.

If you feel your pulse climb, reach for a glass of water. If you notice your urine is dark yellow, drink more fluids to prevent palpitations.

WERBUNG

The 4 types of heart palpitations

4. Restore electrolyte balance

Electrolytes help move electrical signals throughout your body. Electrical signals are important for the proper functioning of your heart. Some electrolytes that can benefit your heart health include:

potassium

calcium

magnesium

sodium

Most of these electrolytes are best obtained from foods. Some great sources of potassium are:

avocados

bananas

sweet potatoes

spinach

To increase your intake of calcium, eat more dark leafy greens and dairy products. Dark leafy greens are also a great source of magnesium, and so are nuts and fish.

Most people get enough sodium in their diet with packaged foods such as deli meats and canned soups.

Supplements may help maintain your electrolyte balance, but talk with a doctor before taking any new supplements.

Too many electrolytes can cause problems. If you suspect you may have an imbalance, your doctor can test your urine and blood to confirm.

5. Avoid stimulants

There are many substances that may make you more likely to have a fast heartbeat. Eliminating these things from your daily routine may lessen or even stop your symptoms. They include:

caffeinated beverages and foods

tobacco products or cannabis

heavy alcohol use

certain cold and cough medications

appetite suppressants

drugs used to treat mental health conditions

high blood pressure medications

illegal drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, or other amphetamines

Your own triggers will likely be unique to you. Try keeping a list of the things you consume that may cause your heart palpitations. If possible, avoid any items you think may be causing your symptoms and see if your symptoms stop.

Before stopping any prescription medications, talk with your doctor if you think prescription medications may be causing your symptoms.

Learn more: Understanding heart palpitations after eating.

6. Try hawthorn berry extract

Hawthorn berry extract is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine and has been used to help with digestive issues and high blood pressure. Hawthorn berry extract may also be able to help reduce heart palpitations.

An older two-year-long cohort studyTrusted Source separated 952 study participants with heart failure into several groups. One would receive hawthorn extract as an add-on therapy, one group would use only hawthorn extract, and the last group would receive therapy without hawthorn.

The study found that those who used hawthorn berry extract on its own had reduced heart palpitations compared with the participants who did not receive hawthorn at all.

However, the National Institutes of HealthTrusted Source reports that there is conflicting evidence on hawthorn’s effect, and it may increase the progression of heart disease.

Hawthorn may interact with heart medications, so talk with your doctor before taking hawthorn extract. Hawthorn is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should not be given to children.

When choosing herbal approaches, research your source of hawthorn, as herbs are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There may be concerns about quality, mislabeling, or contamination.

7. Do valsalva maneuvers

A valsalva maneuver is a breathing technique that can help restore a normal heart rate if your heart is beating too quickly.

To perform a valsalva maneuver, do the following steps in order:

Pinch your nose.

Close your mouth.

Attempt to exhale.

Bear down, as if having a bowel movement.

Perform these steps for 10 to 15 seconds.

8. Eat a balanced diet

A nutritious, balanced diet consists of:

GERD Heart Palpitations | Can Gerd Make You Have Heart Palpitations

fresh fruits

vegetables

whole grains

lean proteins

healthy fats from nuts or fish

Limit these foods to lower your risk of heart problems:

saturated fats

trans fats

salt

sugar

processed or packaged foods

Learn more about adding heart-healthy ingredients into your diet.

9. Reduce stress levels

Stress and a rapid heart rate tend to go hand-in-hand. As such, reducing your stress levels as much as possible can help lower your heart rate. It can also lower your risk of high blood pressure and other stress-related health issues.

There are a number of effective strategies for reducing stress. Some include:

practicing mindfulness

trying deep breathing

going to therapy

watching your caffeine intake

exercising daily

journaling

10. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise is important for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The American Heart AssociationTrusted Source recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly.

Cardio doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, brisk walks have a host of health benefits, including weight loss, lower blood pressure, and improved cardiovascular health.

Additional treatments

In many cases of heart palpitations, no treatment is necessary. Instead, you should pay attention to when you’re experiencing palpitations and avoid activities, foods, or anything else that brings them on.

You may find it helpful to write down when you experience palpitations to see if you can identify a trigger. Keeping a log may also be useful if you experience more palpitations over time. You can take this information to your doctor at future appointments.

If your doctor identifies a cause of your palpitations, they may recommend treatment. For example, if your diagnostic tests uncover that you have heart disease, your doctor will move forward with a treatment plan in that area.

Treatment options for heart disease may include medications, surgery, or implantation of a device like a pacemaker.

When to seek help

Talk with your doctor if you notice your heart rate is faster than normal. Doctors cannot always pinpoint the cause of heart palpitations. They will need to rule out heart rhythm disorders like tachycardia and other medical conditions like hyperthyroidism.

There is typically little risk of complications with heart palpitations unless they’re caused by an underlying heart condition. If they’re caused by a heart condition, you may experience:

fainting if your heart beats too quickly and causes your blood pressure to drop

cardiac arrest if your palpitations are caused by arrhythmias and your heart isn’t beating efficiently

stroke if your palpitations are caused by atrial fibrillation

heart failure if your heart isn’t pumping well for a long period of time

Speak with your doctor if you have palpitations with any other symptoms or if you have other concerns about your health.

Diagnosis

At your appointment, your doctor will likely:

ask about your medical history

ask what symptoms you’re experiencing

ask what medications you’re taking

give you a physical exam

It may be difficult to find the cause of your palpitations. Your doctor may order further tests or refer to you to a cardiologist.

Tests for heart palpitations may include an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which shows the electrical activity of your heart. You may also have an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound test that helps your doctor visualize the different parts of your heart.

Other options include a stress test, chest X-ray, and ambulatory cardiac monitor test. In some cases, your doctor may also want to run more invasive tests, like an electrophysiology study or cardiac catheterization.

Outlook

Most cases of heart palpitations are not considered serious unless you have underlying heart disease. Your doctor still needs to know what you’re experiencing, but your heart palpitations may not need special treatment beyond lifestyle changes. Avoiding triggers of heart palpitations may help reduce or eliminate your symptoms.

How to Stop Heart Palpitations. Naturally & Effectively.

Tips for a healthy heart

The American Heart AssociationTrusted Source explains that there are seven things you can do to protect yourself from heart disease. They call these tips “Life’s Simple 7.”

Exercise moderately for at least 2.5 hours each week. If you’d rather go hard, you can get the same heart-healthy benefits with 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Exercise intensity is unique to you. Exercise that’s moderate intensity for you may be vigorous for someone else. Moderate exercise should feel somewhat difficult, but you should still be able to carry on a conversation. Vigorous exercise should feel very challenging, and you’ll only be able to get a few words out at a time between breaths.

Keep your LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol counts low. Exercise can help with this. Limiting your intake of saturated fats is another lifestyle measure you can take. Sometimes, though, high cholesterol is genetic. Get tested and start medication, if necessary.

Eat a diet with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. You can even look for foods with the American Heart Association’s check mark of approval.

Get your blood pressure checked. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Keeping yours in check means eating well, exercising, and taking medications if you need them.

Maintain a moderate weight. Having overweight or obesity can increase your chances of developing heart disease. Maintaining a moderate weight can help with anything from your cholesterol counts to your blood pressure levels.

Know your blood sugar. Adults with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease. Keep blood sugars within recommended ranges. Eating well, exercising, and regulating your levels with medication can help.

Try to stop smoking if you smoke. There are many benefits to stopping smoking, including lowering your chances of developing:

heart disease

stroke

lung disease

certain cancers

What is the first aid for palpitations?

Your doctor will listen to your heart using a stethoscope and ask questions about your medical history. He or she will also likely look for signs of medical conditions that can cause heart palpitations, such as a swollen thyroid gland.

If your doctor suspects that your palpitations are caused by an arrhythmia or other heart condition, tests might include:

Electrocardiogram (ECG). In this noninvasive test, a technician places leads on your chest that record the electrical signals that make your heart beat.

An ECG can help your doctor detect problems in your heartbeat and heart structure that could cause palpitations. The test will be done either while you rest or during exercise (stress electrocardiogram).

Holter monitoring. You wear this portable device to record a continuous ECG, usually for 24 to 72 hours, while you keep a diary of when you feel palpitations. Holter monitoring is used to detect heart palpitations that aren't found during a regular ECG exam. Some personal devices, such as smart watches, offer ECG monitoring. Ask your doctor if this is an option for you.

Event recording. If you don't have irregular heart rhythms while you wear a Holter monitor or if the events occur less than once weekly, your doctor might recommend an event recorder. This portable ECG device is intended to monitor your heart activity over a week to a few months. You wear it all day, but it records only at certain times for a few minutes at a time. You activate it by pushing a button when you have symptoms of a fast heart rate.

Echocardiogram. This noninvasive exam creates a moving picture of your heart using sound waves. It can show blood flow and structure problems with your heart.

More Information

Chest X-rays

Echocardiogram

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

Show more related information

Treatment

Unless your doctor finds that you have a heart condition, heart palpitations seldom require treatment. Instead, your doctor might recommend ways for you to avoid the triggers that cause your palpitations.

If your palpitations are caused by a condition, such as an arrhythmia, treatment will focus on correcting the condition.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic

Lifestyle and home remedies

The most appropriate way to treat palpitations at home is to avoid the triggers that cause your symptoms.

Reduce stress. Try relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing.

Avoid stimulants. Caffeine, nicotine, some cold medicines and energy drinks can make your heart beat quickly or irregularly.

Avoid illegal drugs. Certain drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can bring on heart palpitations.

Preparing for your appointment

If you have heart palpitations with severe shortness of breath, chest pain or fainting, seek emergency medical attention. If your palpitations are brief and there are no other worrisome signs or symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor. Your doctor can help you find out if your palpitations are harmless or a symptom of a more serious heart condition.

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment:

What you can do

When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet or fast.

Make a list of:

Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to heart palpitations, and when they began

Key personal information, including family history of heart disease, arrhythmias, stroke, high blood pressure or diabetes, as well as major stresses or recent changes in your life

All medications, vitamins and supplements you take, including doses

Questions to ask your doctor

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you're given.

7 Home Remedies For Heart Palpitations

For heart palpitations, basic questions to ask your doctor include:

What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?

What are other possible causes?

What should I do if my symptoms return?

What tests will I need?

Do I need treatment and, if so, what?

I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?

Are there restrictions I need to follow?

Should I see a specialist?

Do you have brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, such as:

Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?

Do your palpitations start and stop suddenly?

Does it seem like your palpitations have a pattern, such as occurring the same time every day or during a certain activity?

What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?

What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?

Are you having other symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or dizziness when you have palpitations?

Have you ever had heart rhythm problems before, such as atrial fibrillation?

What you can do in the meantime

Before your appointment, you can try to improve your symptoms by avoiding activities or stresses that might cause your palpitations. Some common triggers include:

Anxiety or panic attacks

Too much caffeine or alcohol

Use of medications or supplements that contain stimulants, such as energy drinks or some cold medicines

What food causes heart palpitations?

Those flutterings you feel in your chest after eating could be heart palpitations caused by certain foods and medical conditions. We’ll explain exactly what’s going on in your body and give you some information on how to cope with an increased heart rate after eating. 

What are heart palpitations after eating like?

Heart palpitations are often described as a pounding, fluttering, or fast-beating heart. It’s normal to feel this sensation during times of stress or physical exercise. Heart palpitations can also be brought on by certain medications or medical conditions. 

If you experience heart palpitations after eating, whatever foods or beverages you just consumed could be responsible. It is also possible that those palpitations are due to an underlying medical condition.

Foods that can cause heart palpitations

Caffeinated food and drinks

Some healthcare providers blame caffeine for an increased heart rate after eating. Caffeine is a common ingredient in foods and beverages including:

Coffee

Tea

Soda

Energy drinks

Chocolate

Recent research has shown that caffeine may have certain heart health benefits and is not a likely cause of palpitations after eating. This 2016 study gave test subjects a steady intake of caffeinated beverages over a 24-hour period, monitoring them for any increases in heart rate. The study couldn’t find a link between caffeine and heart palpitations, but more research and longer studies are needed to get to the bottom of the results.

Sugar

Sugar can cause palpitations after eating, especially if you have hypoglycemia.

Alcohol

Alcohol can also cause heart palpitations. It has an effect on the vagal nerve that can trigger heart palpitations, especially in people with a condition called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. 

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is an irregular rhythm in the upper chamber of the heart that can be triggered by alcohol. An observational study out of the University of California found that patients with PAF had a 4.42 percent greater chance of heart palpitations after drinking alcohol (especially beer) compared to a second group with a different type of arrhythmia. The common factor in each case was the activation of the vagus nerve by alcohol.

Tyramine-rich food

Researchers believe that foods rich in tyramine, such as cheese, dried yeast, red wine, bananas, and chocolate, may cause atrial fibrillation and a rapid heart rate after eating. 

Theobromine-rich food

Chocolate is the primary source of theobromine in Western diets. It is also very high in saturated fat and caffeine. Many people love dark chocolate in particular for its antioxidants, especially flavonols, which provide a range of protective cardiovascular benefits. Dark chocolate may also cause an elevated heart rate and arrhythmia, but more research is needed to confirm this link.

Dietary supplements

Other possible causes of heart palpitations after eating are dietary supplements and over-the-counter decongestant medication containing phenylephrine. 

Some herbal remedies can also increase your heart rate after eating, including: 

Ephedra 

Ginseng 

Bitter orange

Valerian 

Hawthorn

Medical conditions causing heart pounding after eating

Acid reflux

A study out of Stanford University’s School of Medicine suggests a relationship between acid reflux and heart pounding after eating. Subjects noticed a reduction in heart palpitations (atrial fibrillation) once they were given a proton pump inhibitor to treat their gastroesophageal reflux disease. Larger studies are needed to prove a direct link between acid reflux and an increased heart rate after eating.

7 Home Remedies For Heart Palpitations

Hormonal changes

Fluctuations in estrogen levels can also have an effect on the heart. Estrogen is a key component in the healthy maintenance of tissues in your body. This includes the tissues of your circulatory system and heart muscle. During menopause, it is not uncommon to experience heart palpitations after eating.

Drugs

Many people are sensitive to cold and flu medication, so consult your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter decongestants, especially if you’re taking medication to treat another condition. 

People who are on insulin to manage their diabetes may experience heart pounding if their blood sugar drops. Monitoring your blood sugar at regular intervals and following a diabetic-friendly diet can help reduce heart palpitations after eating.

Some illegal drugs are stimulants that increase your heart rate and can lead to palpitations, more serious heart arrhythmias, and possible heart attacks.

Heart diseases leading to palpitations after eating

In some cases, an increased heart rate after eating is harmless, but irregular heart rhythms can be a sign of potential heart disease and shouldn’t be ignored. Some medical conditions and symptoms that are associated with an irregular heartbeat are:

Abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia)

Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)

Slow heart rate (bradycardia)

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial flutter

Ischemic heart disease (hardening of the arteries)

How to treat an increased heart rate after eating

Your diet can affect the health of your heart. After working with your health care provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions, consider if what you’re eating may be causing your heart palpitations. 

The best way to do this is to keep a food diary and write down everything you eat and drink, noting any symptoms you have after each meal.

Try avoiding tyramine-rich food and stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol. Stay away from common cold medications with phenylephrine and consider other lifestyle changes like quitting smoking.

Treatment for an increased heart rate depends on the diagnosis. When it comes to your heart and an abnormal heartbeat, a visit to your healthcare provider is always a good idea. Your heart palpitations after eating might be benign and may be improved by some healthy lifestyle habits. However, you might need medication if there is an underlying medical condition. 

Eating heart-healthy foods can help reduce your heart palpitations after eating and your risk of heart disease. Experts suggest that eating a diet rich in whole foods such as nuts, fish, whole grains, olive oil, and fresh fruits and vegetables can improve your cardiovascular health. Start by replacing unhealthy options with wholesome, nutritious foods.

In summary

If you’re concerned about an increased heart rate after eating, first see your health care provider to rule out any medical cause. Try incorporating more heart-healthy foods into your diet and avoid other risk factors like over-the-counter allergy and cold medication. Heart palpitations after eating might not be a serious issue, but it is always a good idea to seek professional medical advice and get checked out.

How do you know if you have heart palpitations?

Heart palpitations (pal-pih-TAY-shuns) are feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering or pounding heart. Stress, exercise, medication or, rarely, a medical condition can trigger them.

Although heart palpitations can be worrisome, they're usually harmless. In rare cases, they can be a symptom of a more serious heart condition, such as an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), that might require treatment.

Symptoms

Heart palpitations can feel like your heart is:

Skipping beats

Fluttering rapidly

Beating too fast

Pounding

Flip-flopping

You might feel heart palpitations in your throat or neck as well as your chest. They can occur when you're active or at rest.

When to see a doctor

Palpitations that are infrequent and last only a few seconds usually don't need to be evaluated. If you have a history of heart disease and have palpitations that occur frequently or worsen, talk to your doctor. He or she might suggest heart-monitoring tests to see if your palpitations are caused by a more serious heart problem.

How to get rid of palpitations naturally

Seek emergency medical attention if heart palpitations are accompanied by:

Chest discomfort or pain

Fainting

Severe shortness of breath

Severe dizziness

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic

Causes

Often the cause of your heart palpitations can't be found. Common causes include:

Strong emotional responses, such as stress, anxiety or panic attacks

Depression

Strenuous exercise

Stimulants, including caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, amphetamines, and cold and cough medications that contain pseudoephedrine

Fever

Hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy or menopause

Too much or to little thyroid hormone

Occasionally heart palpitations can be a sign of a serious problem, such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

Heart rhythm changes (arrhythmias) might cause a very fast heart rate (tachycardia), an unusually slow heart rate (bradycardia), a normal heart rate that varies from the usual heart rhythm or combination of the three.

Risk factors

You might be at risk of developing palpitations if you:

Are highly stressed

Have an anxiety disorder or have regular panic attacks

Are pregnant

Take medicines that contain stimulants, such as some cold or asthma medications

Have an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism)

Have other heart problems, such as an arrhythmia, a heart defect, previous heart attack or previous heart surgery

Complications

Unless a heart condition is causing your heart palpitations, there's little risk of complications. For palpitations caused by a heart condition, possible complications include:

Fainting. If your heart beats rapidly, your blood pressure can drop, causing you to faint. This might be more likely if you have a heart problem, such as congenital heart disease or certain valve problems.

Cardiac arrest. Rarely, palpitations can be caused by life-threatening arrhythmias and can cause your heart to stop beating effectively.

Stroke. If palpitations are due to a condition in which the upper chambers of the heart quiver instead of beating properly (atrial fibrillation), blood can pool and cause clots to form. If a clot breaks loose, it can block a brain artery, causing a stroke.

Heart failure. This can result if your heart is pumping ineffectively for a prolonged period due to an arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation. Sometimes, controlling the rate of an arrhythmia that's causing heart failure can improve your heart's function.

Can palpitations damage your heart?

The symptoms of palpitations vary from patient to patient with some common features.

A perception of irregularity of the pulse, an uneasiness in the chest, a flip-flopping in the chest; frequently people describe their palpitations as "my heart stops." Certainly a feeling of strong pulse throughout the chest, head, and neck could well be described as a palpitation.

Occasionally palpitations can be perceived in unusual ways including a general sense of uneasiness, and, rarely, palpitations are associated with lightheadedness or even loss of consciousness.

Can something I eat or drink cause heart palpitations?

A common substance associated with palpitations is caffeine. Some people are sensitive to any amount of stimulant, but we began to see more caffeine-related palpitations when espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes became popular in the 1990s. Frequently reducing or eliminating beverages that contain caffeine such as coffee or soda can improve palpitations.

Some patients complain of palpitations when they eat too much chocolate, and some patients respond with palpitations around the holiday when they tend to drink too much alcohol.

Some over-the-counter medications such as cold and allergy remedies that contain decongestants (pseudoephedrine) often can precipitate palpitations.

Get rid of your palpitations naturally part 2 - Drink

Frequently, palpitations occur without any obvious precipitating factor, although fatigue, stress, and lack of sleep also cause palpitations to occur or worsen.

How does the physician evaluate palpitations?

The evaluation usually starts like any other complaint, with a good history focused on things like the types of food, beverages, and over-the-counter medications. This is followed by a thorough physical examination focusing on the heart and lungs.

Diagnosing heart palpitations

In terms of laboratory studies, those will be determined by the overall condition and the findings of the physical exam. In most cases, palpitations have a very benign origin, and nothing more than a thorough history and physical examination, an ECG, and perhaps some basic blood lab work is needed.

Diagnosing heart palpitations with severe symptoms

If the patient's symptoms are more severe, such as significant lightheadedness or loss of consciousness associated with palpitations, a more comprehensive evaluation is warranted. That type of evaluation might well involve an ultrasound of the heart, a treadmill test, more sophisticated blood tests including thyroid tests, and an ambulatory EKG or Holter monitor. Some patients may require invasive studies if a serious heart condition is suspected to underlie the symptom of palpitations.

Could heart palpitations accompanied by shortness of breath be serious?

Heart palpitations can certainly be associated with shortness of breath, that is, the two symptoms together without a serious condition being present. That usually indicates that the irregularity of the heart rhythm is significant and may signal the need for a more comprehensive evaluation.

In general, the more serious the symptoms, such as lightheadedness, loss of consciousness, chest pain, shortness of breath, the more seriously one needs to take the problem.

If a patient has known heart disease such as a previous myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure (CHF), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and others, the symptoms of palpitations will require a thorough evaluation.

What are the health risks of experiencing heart palpitations?

The irregularity of the heart rhythm per se usually does no damage to the heart itself. Patients with a very rapid heart over a long period of time do run a risk of developing enlargement and failure of the heart.

We see heart enlargment with a very common cause of palpitations called atrial fibrillation. Patients can be in atrial fibrillation for many years without harm, but some patients with very little symptoms may have too rapid and irregular a rhythm present with symptoms of heart failure. There may also be some increased risk of stroke because of blood clots that can form in association with atrial fibrillation.

Are premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) life threatening?

If someone has normal heart function and no evidence of structural heart disease, the PVCs are a nuisance, but benign. If the PVCs are so symptomatic as to be disruptive, try eliminating all of the factors such as caffeine, certain foods, stress, before considering any treatment with medications. When we do treat with medications, we usually try to use simple medications such as beta-blockers first before going on to specific anti-arrhythmic agents. Very frequently, this is enough to improve patients' symptoms.

PVCs are common

In summary, PVCs are common. In the vast majority of cases, they are of no prognostic significance and frequently go away on their own without any treatment beyond being reassured by your doctor.

How are exercise and PVCs related?

The relationship between extra beats and exercise is a complicated one. Many patients experience PVCs or palpitations before and after exercise, but not during exercise.

When most patients start to exercise, their own heart rate rises and the PVCs or other extra beats disappear at higher heart rates. After exercise, the body's natural adrenalin level remains high for a period of time while the heart rate begins to go down during rest. This period of time often permits the extra beats to come back, and sometimes their rate and frequency are higher than before exercise.

If the other symptoms are mild or not present, usually there is not any reason for serious concern. If other symptoms accompany the palpitations such as shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or severe lightheadedness or loss of consciousness, those symptoms with palpitations in any setting are a cause for concern and require further evaluation.

How to get rid of your palpitations naturally - part 3: Sleep

How accurate are electrocardiograms (EKGs)?

An electrocardiogram is a representation of the electrical activity of the heart in multiple views. It records about 12 seconds and patients with palpitations may or may not have an abnormality on their EKG during that time. That is why many physicians use ambulatory EKGs or Holter monitors to try to make a diagnosis.

The other benefit of the standard EKG is that it may reveal evidence of other things that may be wrong with the heart such as an old heart attack or other electrical abnormalities that may provide important clues to an underlying diagnosis that the palpitations represent. So an electrocardiogram is a valuable part of a heart evaluation, but is not particularly sensitive for detecting heart rhythm abnormalities.

Holter monitoring

Other approaches include using a monitor that is hooked up quickly when symptoms occur but is otherwise carried in the pocket or purse for up to a month at a time. This permits better correlation of the symptoms of palpitations and the heart rhythm at the time symptoms are being experienced. On rare occasions we will implant a loop recorder under the skin that can record your heart for up to three years and capture arrhythmias that occur rarely or in situations where wearing a monitor isn’t practical, such as competitive sports, swimming, etc.

Can pregnancy cause heart palpitations?

I have had a number of patients in my practice that had their first episode of rapid heart action and palpitation during pregnancy. This is understandable in that the state of pregnancy causes significant shifts in blood volume and also puts a new stress on the heart that may bring out a tendency for rapid heart action that was not manifest prior to pregnancy.

After the pregnancy, the patient may not experience palpitations or may begin to see palpitations occur under other stressful circumstances. There certainly doesn't need to be anything wrong with the heart in order for palpitations to occur during pregnancy.

One the other hand, women with a history of heart rhythm problems or syncope prior to pregnancy will often have a marked decrease in their symptoms during pregnancy as their cardiac output increases and blood volume increases.

What medications are usually prescribed to prevent palpitations?

There are a large number of medications that are used by physicians that are used to treat more serious types of heart rhythm disorders. These are usually prescribed by a heart specialist because they do have significant side effects and if not used correctly can cause serious cardiovascular problems, even a cardiac arrest or sudden death.

When used correctly, these powerful medications can prevent serious heart rhythm disorders from occurring and can be quite useful, although most patients would prefer not to be on them because of their cost, side effects, and they often must be taken multiple times a day.

How could a pacemaker improve heart palpitations?

In recent years, patients with the most severe types of heart rhythm disorders have benefited from sophisticated pacemakers and devices capable of correcting the heart rhythm with an electrical shock delivered automatically after the heart rhythm disorder occurs. Obviously, these are highly specialized devices, and they are normally prescribed and tested by heart specialists.

Can herbal remedies help prevent heart palpitations?

In terms of herbal remedies, I am not aware of an herbal remedy specifically effective for heart palpitation. I should say that low levels of potassium or magnesium in the body may be associated with palpitations and occasionally even more severe heart rhythm disorders, and in those cases supplements or foods high in potassium and magnesium are quite helpful.

How To Get Rid of Heart Palpitations (Natural Remedies)

Can I experience heart palpitations during panic attacks?

The startle effect releases substances in the body such as adrenaline which cause the heart rate to increase and the heart to beat more vigorously, creating a sensation of panic, heart pounding and heart racing. This is the experience of becoming aware of a natural or normal functioning of the nervous system. Anxiety, panic, and startling cause the adrenaline level to rise and create the sensation of palpitation.

Why do I experience heart palpitations when I bend forward?

When bending over, there is increased intra-abdominal pressure and this is transmitted up the esophagus (or a hiatal hernia) which lies directly against the back of the left atrium. This is the most common cause of non-cardiac palpitations.

Esophageal mobility disorders

Persons with esophageal motility disorders will also have a frequent palpitations and the will be no cardiac rhythm abnormality present. The brain doesn’t have the ability to differentiate cardiac palpitations from the stomach, esophagus, or sometimes even the chest wall muscles. These in and of themselves are normal and natural and don't require any specific treatment in the vast majority of cases.

Are PVCs that I can feel more significant than those I can't?

There is no prognostic difference between the PVCs that are felt by the patient and those that are not. Obviously the symptomatic PVCs are of more concern to the patient because they can be annoying and distracting. Beyond that, the PVCs are all the same, prognostically. In most patients who are otherwise healthy, PVCs on a Holter are of little prognostic value regardless of whether they're experienced or not.

What should I do if my 9-year-old is complaining of "skipped beats?"

The same types of recommendations apply to children and in the vast majority of children, the causes of skipped beats are usually benign and do not require treatment. They should not be ignored, however, as electrical or structural abnormalities of the heart need to be ruled out.

If a child simply notices an occasional "skipped beat" and is otherwise healthy and keeps up with their friends on the playground, it's unlikely that anything serious is going on.

Symptoms that require medical attention

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Lightheadedness

Fainting spells

Nonetheless, their pediatrician should see children with these types of complaints, and some of them will need to be seen by a pediatric cardiologist.

What do people mean by sudden death?

Sudden death is used to describe a situation in which a patient loses cardiac function and essentially will die within minutes if assistance is not provided. By assistance, I mean cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and frequently, electrical cardioversion to restore the heart rhythm to normal. Obviously, patients where these efforts are successful will require extensive evaluation to determine the cause of cardiac arrest and to prevent it from occurring in the future.

The internal defibrillator devices that have become commonplace in the care of these types of patients have proven to be very effective in preventing death from heart arrhythmias in patients who have already had one or more episode of attempted sudden death.

Q: I tried putting Vicks VapoRub on the soles of my feet to calm a cough last night. It did absolutely nothing for me. If anything, my cough got worse. My feet felt like they were on fire, and the feeling of the Vicks between my toes was just not pleasant. So I will not be doing that ever again. On the plus side, my feet are very soft.

A: Eight years ago, a nurse told us about slathering Vicks VapoRub on the soles of the feet to quiet a nighttime cough. Since then, many others have reported success. Here is a typical testimonial: "The real treasure of Vicks VapoRub is the application to the bottom of the feet. When I first heard about it, I had a very bad cough from allergy-related bronchitis. I tried this remedy, and it relieved my cough almost immediately."

Palpitation - Natural Ayurvedic Home Remedies

Clearly, as your experience demonstrates, Vicks does not work to ease all coughs. If you have athlete's foot or cracks between your toes, the camphor, menthol and eucalyptus oil in the ointment might sting.

Q: I have been taking atenolol for several years and have been troubled with symptoms that have gone undiagnosed despite untold hours in doctors' offices. I have even been hospitalized with extreme dizziness and heart palpitations. Sometimes I gasp for air after simply climbing the stairs to my home. I also suffer with cold feet and hands.

Just today, I was at the doctor's office with chest pain, breathing problems and heart palpitations. She said my blood pressure was 100/60 and told me she thought it was due to the atenolol. She suggested I cut back to every other day. I wonder if this drug has been the problem all along.

A: Atenolol is a beta blocker, like metoprolol and propranolol. Such drugs were once first-line treatments against hypertension, but experts now recommend that they be used only when other approaches are inadequate.

Beta blockers are notorious for causing cold hands and feet, fatigue and dizziness. They also can cause breathing difficulties or make asthma worse.

Q: I have a suggestion for the person who wrote about being addicted to nasal spray. I was hooked on Neo-Synephrine for more than 30 years.

Then I read that a prescription for Flonase could help. I was very skeptical, but my doctor had no problem writing me a prescription.

I put one spray in each nostril, and by that evening, I had not used the Neo-Synephrine and threw the bottle away. That was in 1999. I had tried every method I heard about, and nothing worked until I used Flonase, which I still use occasionally. I have shared my experience with other folks who are hooked on nasal sprays.

A: Fluticasone (Flonase) is a corticosteroid nose spray that helps reduce inflammation. It's usually prescribed to treat seasonal allergies such as hay fever. It also can ease the rebound congestion that causes such misery when a decongestant nasal spray is halted suddenly.

When should I be worried about heart palpitations?

Believing that something could be wrong with your heart is a scary feeling. Heart palpitations  can make you fear the worst, but palpitations are actually quite common and usually nothing to worry about.

However, that’s not to say that you should ignore them completely. Rarely, they could be a sign of a more serious condition like atrial fibrillation or AFib. Knowing when to worry about heart palpitations can help you catch certain conditions early so that you can seek the appropriate treatment option.

When to Worry About Heart Palpitations

Heart Palpitations occur for many reasons. You should contact your doctor if you experience heart palpitations frequently, for longer than a few seconds, or if they are accompanied by dizziness, loss of consciousness, chest or upper body pain, nausea, excessive or unusual sweating, and shortness of breath.

How to Stop Heart Palpitations | Home Remedies for Palpitations.

What are Heart Palpitations?

Have you ever felt your heart skip a beat or flutter in your chest? If so, you’ve experienced heart palpitations. A broad medical term, the term “palpitation” can mean many different things, including:

Feeling like your heart is beating too quickly

Feeling your heart thump in your chest

A heartbeat that feels irregular/out of rhythm/skips a beat

Any sensation that makes you aware of your heart beating is a type of palpitation. You can even feel these sensations in your throat or neck.

Common Triggers

If you’re worried that your heart palpitations are the result of a heart problem, here’s some good news – most palpitations are not caused by heart-related issues. Instead, they are commonly triggered by:

Exercise

Stress/Anxiety

Alcohol

Stimulants (caffeine)

Nicotine withdrawal

Hormonal changes during pregnancy

Low blood sugar

How to Reduce Heart Palpitations at Home

For the most part, palpitations caused by non-heart related triggers can be treated with simple home remedies.

For example, if you only feel your heart race when you’re anxious or stressed, relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing could be the key to reducing these palpitations. Finding your stress triggers and addressing them can also help you avoid palpitations in the future.

Likewise, a thumping heart caused by stimulant use can be calmed by reducing your intake of tobacco products and caffeine. If you’re taking any medication and experienced palpitations, tell your doctor. They can determine if your medication could be the cause.

Hydration and diet play a big role, too. Being dehydrated or having low levels of potassium can also trigger heart palpitations. If you have low blood sugar, eating too many carbohydrate-rich foods and processed sugars can increase your likelihood of experiencing palpitations.

When to See a Doctor

Nearly everyone will experience heart palpitations at some point. A majority of the time, they’ll be completely benign (not harmful). Other times, it could be your heart trying to tell you that something’s wrong.

You should call your doctor if your heart palpitations last longer than a few seconds at a time or occur frequently.

If you’re healthy, you don’t need to worry about brief heart palpitations that only happen every now and then. That being said, it’s still a good idea to monitor your palpitations and keep track of how often they happen and how long they last. They when, when you do visit your doctor, it will be easier for them to make an accurate diagnosis.

When to Call an Ambulance

If a person’s heart palpitations are accompanied by:

How to Stop Heart Palpitations Due to Anxiety [+ 1 EASY Method to ALWAYS Rely on!]

Loss of consciousness

Chest pain

Upper body pain

Dizziness

Shortness of breath

Unusual sweating

Nausea

These are possible warning signs of a heart attack or other serious heart condition that requires immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency number – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Serious Causes of Heart Palpitations

Sometimes, heart palpitations are a sign of a serious type of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) such as atrial fibrillation (AFib) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), or even heart failure.

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AFib

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a common condition that causes the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) to quiver irregularly instead of beating at a regular pace. This makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood to your lower chambers (ventricles) and out to the rest of your body. As your blood flow slows down, your risk of forming dangerous clots increases.

Untreated, AFib can increase a person’s risk of stroke 5-fold, so recognizing the early warning signs is essential. However, because the disorder affects people in many ways, it can be challenging to diagnose. Most cases begin as occasional or paroxysmal. Since there is no predictable pattern of onset, a standard Electrocardiogram or EKG may miss the arrhythmia entirely. Specialized diagnostic tools used in our Cardiology department take longer-term measurements and are effective in diagnosing complex arrhythmias.

Common risk factors include:

Age (adults 65+ are most at risk)

High blood pressure

A family history of AFib

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

A history of heart disease or previous heart surgery

You should ask your doctor about testing for AFib if you:

Have a high risk of AFib based on the factors above

Experience fluttering heart palpitations that last longer than a minute at a time

Have palpitations accompanied by dizziness/fainting/shortness of breath

When detected early, AFib can be treated with:

Medication: Anticoagulants, or blood-thinning medication, can reduce the risk of stroke. Drug therapy works in about 50% of patients. The other 50% may require further treatment to control their Afib due to potential side effects or declining medication effectiveness over time.

Ablation surgery: Cardiac catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that threads a specialized catheter through a vein in the groin, arm, or neck and into the heart. During the procedure, targeted heat or cold therapy is used to ablate or destroy errant electrical signals of the heart, causing palpitations or arrhythmia.

Pacemaker: While a pacemaker does not treat Afib itself, it is often used for patients suffering from bradycardia (a slow heartbeat) or heart failure.

Ventricular Tachycardia

Ventricular tachycardia, or VT, is a rare but severe type of arrhythmia that causes the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles) to beat too quickly. Like AFib, VT can result in dizziness and shortness of breath. VT can be treated in several ways, including medications, cardioversion (electric shock to the heart), and cardiac catheter ablation.

6 Home Remedies For Heart Palpitations

Heart Failure

If the heart cannot pump blood effectively, heart failure can occur. Heart palpitations on their own are not a sign of heart failure – instead, they are just one of many symptoms that can occur. Some patients experiencing heart failure may not even experience palpitations at all.

According to the American Heart Association, some of the most common symptoms include:

Fatigue

Fluid build-up in the lungs

Rapid heartbeat

Loss of appetite

Shortness of breath

Confusion

However, keep in mind that heart failure symptoms vary from person to person, and women often experience different symptoms than men.

Don’t Panic (But Don’t Ignore the Signs, Either)

At the end of the day, most heart palpitations are as harmless as hiccups. If you are otherwise healthy and only experience them from time to time, you have no reason to panic.

However, while heart palpitations are usually not dangerous, it’s still in your best interest to get your symptoms checked by a cardiologist if the problem persists. And if your palpitations are accompanied by other symptoms, such as dizziness or weakness, it could be a sign of a more serious condition that shouldn’t be ignored.

How do you stop heart palpitations?

Heart palpitations can cause a sensation of a pounding heart or a racing pulse. Palpitations can also feel like a fluttering feeling in the chest or like the heart has skipped a beat. While medical attention may be necessary, some home remedies can help to stop palpitations.

Lifestyle factors can cause heart palpitations. Less frequently, an underlying medical condition is responsible. Palpitations can result from the following conditions, and they require a doctor’s care:

thyroid problems

abnormal heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias

atrial fibrillation

heart failure, in rare cases

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Home remedies to relieve heart palpitations

The following methods can help to reduce palpitations.

1. Perform relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, may help to reduce palpitations.

Stress can have many ill effects on a person’s health. It can induce palpitations or make them worse.

It may help to try the following relaxation techniques:

meditation

deep breathing

journaling

yoga

spending time outdoors

exercising

taking short breaks from work or school

using a method of guided imagery, these are available to purchase online

2. Reduce or eliminate stimulant intake

Symptoms may become noticeable after using a stimulant.

The following contain stimulants:

tobacco products

illegal drugs

some cold and cough medications

caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and soda

appetite suppressants

marijuana

some mental health drugs

some high blood pressure medications

Not all stimulants will cause palpitations in everyone.

12 Home Remedies For Heart Palpitation

3. Stimulate the vagus nerve

The vagus nerve connects the brain to the heart, and stimulating it can help to calm palpitations. A person can do so by:

holding the breath and pushing down, as if making a bowel movement

coughing

placing ice or a cold, damp towel on the face for a few seconds

gagging

splashing cold water on the face

chanting “Om”

taking a cold shower

Before trying this method consult a doctor, who can advise on the best technique.

4. Keep electrolytes balanced

Avocados and bananas are high in potassium.

Electrolytes are molecules found throughout the body that help to transfer electrical signals. These signals play a significant role in regulating the heart rate.

A person can boost the number of electrolytes in their body by eating foods rich in:

sodium

potassium

calcium

magnesium

A normal diet usually provides a sufficient source of sodium.

The following foods have high potassium contents:

potatoes

bananas

avocados

spinach

Dairy products and dark, leafy greens are rich in calcium. Magnesium is also found in these vegetables, as well as in nuts and fish.

It may be tempting to attain these nutrients by taking supplements. A person should consult a doctor before trying any supplements, particularly if they are also taking prescription medication.

5. Keep hydrated

When the body is dehydrated, the heart has to work harder to circulate blood, which can cause heart palpitations.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. The recommended amount will vary, depending on age, sex, and whether a person is pregnant, according to the Centers for Disease Control and PreventionTrusted Source (CDC).

A person should drink a full cup or glass of water when:

their urine is dark

their heart rate increases

they have dry mouth

they feel thirsty

they have a headache

they feel dizzy

the skin is dry or pruny

6. Avoid excessive alcohol use

Alcohol is a depressant and does not typically raise the heartrate.

While drinking in moderation is not necessarily problematic, some research indicates that even one drink per day can increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. A palpitating heart is just one symptom of this condition.

Heart Palpitations – Natural Ayurvedic Home Remedies

7. Exercise regularly

Walking can help to strengthen the heart and reduce palpitations.

Exercise can improve overall cardiovascular health and restore the heart’s natural rhythm. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Cardiovascular exercise helps to strengthen the heart, which can prevent or reduce palpitations.

Beneficial exercises include:

walking

jogging

running

biking

swimming

However, exercise may trigger palpitations in some people, and it is important to identify and avoid problematic exercises.

Consult a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if heart palpitations tend to last longer than a few seconds.

A doctor can determine whether an underlying condition is causing the palpitations.

These conditions commonly include:

heart disease

thyroid issues

anxiety

heart failure

heart valve disease

Other causes of heart palpitations include:

exercise

stress

dehydration

illness

some medications

illegal drug use

pregnancy

caffeine

tobacco use

excessive alcohol intake

Some prescription medications can cause heart palpitations. Also, a person who has had a heart attack may be more likely to develop palpitations.

Treatment will depend on the cause. A doctor may recommend the following:

surgery

medications

a pacemaker

changing medications that may be causing palpitations.

Takeaway

Heart palpitations are common, and they often last for a few seconds. The tips listed above can help to stop palpitations and reduce their occurrence.

Speak to a doctor if the sensation lasts for longer than a few seconds. This may indicate an underlying condition that requires treatment.

What causes palpitation of the heart?

Palpitations make you feel like your heart is beating too hard or too fast, skipping a beat, or fluttering. You may notice heart palpitations in your chest, throat, or neck.

How to Stop Heart Palpitations Naturally and Quickly - 9 Ways

They can be bothersome or frightening. They usually aren't serious or harmful, though, and often go away on their own. Most of the time, they're caused by stress and anxiety, or because you’ve had too much caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol. They can also happen when you’re pregnant.

In rare cases, palpitations can be a sign of a more serious heart condition. If you have heart palpitations, see your doctor. Get immediate medical attention if they come with:

Shortness of breath

Dizziness

Chest pain

Fainting

After your doctor takes your medical history and looks you over, they may order tests to find the cause. If they find one, the right treatment can reduce or get rid of the palpitations.

If there’s no underlying cause, lifestyle changes can help, including stress management.

Causes

There can be many. Usually, palpitations are either related to your heart or the cause is unknown. Non-heart-related causes include:

Strong emotions like anxiety, fear, or stress. They often happen during panic attacks.

Vigorous physical activity

Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines

Medical conditions, including thyroid disease, a low blood sugar level, anemia, low blood pressure, fever, and dehydration

Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or just before menopause. Sometimes, palpitations during pregnancy are signs of anemia.

Medications, including diet pills, decongestants, asthma inhalers, and some drugs used to prevent arrhythmias (a serious heart rhythm problem) or treat an underactive thyroid

Some herbal and nutritional supplements

Abnormal electrolyte levels

Some people have palpitations after heavy meals rich in carbohydrates, sugar, or fat. Sometimes, eating foods with a lot of monosodium glutamate (MSG), nitrates, or sodium can bring them on, too.

If you have heart palpitations after eating certain foods, it could be due to food sensitivity. Keeping a food diary can help you figure out which foods to avoid.

They can also be related to heart disease. When they are, they’re more likely to represent arrhythmia. Heart conditions tied to palpitations include:

Prior heart attack

Coronary artery disease

Heart failure

Heart valve problems

Heart muscle problems

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At the Doctor’s Office

Your doctor will:

Give you a physical exam

Take down your medical history

Want to know about your current medications, diet, and lifestyle

Ask for specifics about when, how often, and under what circumstances your palpitations occur

Sometimes, a blood test can help your doctor find the cause of your palpitations. Other useful tests include:

Electrocardiogram(EKG): This can be done while you’re at rest or exercising. The latter is called a stress EKG. In both cases, the test records your heart's electrical signals and can find unusual heart rhythms.

Holter monitoring: You’ll wear a monitor on your chest. It continuously records your heart's electrical signals for 24 to 48 hours. It can identify rhythm differences that weren't picked up during an EKG.

Event recording: You’ll wear a device on your chest and use a handheld gadget to record your heart's electrical signals when symptoms occur.

Chest X-ray: Your doctor will check for changes in your lungs that could come from heart problems. For example, if they find fluid in your lungs, it may come from heart failure.

5 ways to stop heart palpitations during menopause

Echocardiogram: This is an ultrasound of your heart. It provides detailed information about its structure and function.

If necessary, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist for more tests or treatment.

Treatment

This depends on their cause. Often, palpitations are harmless and go away on their own. In that case, no treatment is needed.

If your doctor doesn't find a cause, they may advise you to avoid the things that might trigger the palpitations. Strategies may include:

Ease anxiety and stress. Leave a stressful situation and try to be calm. Anxiety, stress, fear, or panic can cause palpitations. Other common ways to stay calm include:

Relaxation exercises

Yoga

Tai chi

Biofeedback

Guided imagery

Aromatherapy

Cut out certain foods, beverages, and other substances. These may include:

Alcohol

Nicotine

Caffeine

Illegal drugs

Avoid medications that act as stimulants. You may have to steer clear of:

Cough and cold medicines

Certain herbal and nutritional supplements

If lifestyle changes don’t help, you may be prescribed medications. In some cases, these will be beta-blockers or calcium-channel blockers.

If your doctor finds a reason for your palpitations, they will focus on treating that reason.

If they’re caused by a medication, your doctor will try to find a different treatment.

If they represent an arrhythmia, you may get medications or procedures. You may also be referred to a heart rhythm specialist known as an electrophysiologist.

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HEART PALPATATIONS IN MENOPAUSE, IS THIS NORMAL?

Follow Up

Make sure to check in with your doctor. Often, palpitations aren’t serious, but they can be related to abnormal heart valves, heart rhythm problems, or panic attacks.

Always call a doctor if palpitations change in nature or increase suddenly.

Call 911 right away if you have these symptoms along with palpitations:

Dizziness

Confusion

Lightheadedness

Passing out

Shortness of breath

Pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, neck, jaw, arms, or upper back

Is Vicks safe for heart patients?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not use this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This side effect can occur without warning symptoms at any time while using diclofenac. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect.

See also Precautions and Drug Interactions sections.

)Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn't go away, black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking.Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of using this medication.

USES

See also Warning section.

This medication is used to treat arthritis of the knee(s). It reduces pain, swelling, and joint stiffness and helps to improve your ability to move and flex the joint. Diclofenac is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.

HOW TO USE

Read the Medication Guide if available, and the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using diclofenac and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.This medication is for use on the skin only. Apply this medication to clean, dry skin, as directed by your doctor, usually 40 drops for each knee four times daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Place 10 drops of this medication into the hand or directly onto the affected knee. Spread the medication evenly around the front, back, and sides of the knee. Repeat these steps until you have applied the prescribed dose to cover all surfaces of the knee. Repeat on the other knee if directed to do so by your doctor. Let the medication dry for several minutes. Do not touch the treated knee, allow other people to touch it, or wear clothing over it until the treated knee is completely dry. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions on how to use this medication.Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not apply this medication to open wounds, or to infected or damaged skin. Do not bandage or tightly cover the treated area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor. Wait at least 30 minutes after applying this medication before showering.It is important to use this medication regularly at evenly spaced intervals to get the most benefit from it. Use the exact dose prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it more often or for longer than prescribed. Do not use this medication for more than 3 months at a time unless directed by your doctor. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor or pharmacist.For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks of using this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.If you are using this drug "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medication may not work as well.Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.

How to Stop Heart Palpitations at Home | Palpitations | Home Remedies for Heart Palpitations

SIDE EFFECTS

See also Warning section.

Skin irritation (such as dryness, redness, stinging), drowsiness, or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist right away.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), symptoms of heart failure (such as swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain).This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS

See also Warning section.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain other inactive ingredients (such as dimethyl sulfoxide, propylene glycol), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, aspirin-sensitive asthma (a history of worsening breathing with runny/stuffy nose after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs), liver disease, stomach/intestine problems (such as bleeding, ulcers, Crohn's disease), heart disease (such as previous heart attack), high blood pressure, stroke, swelling (edema, fluid retention), blood disorders (such as anemia), bleeding/clotting problems, growths in the nose (nasal polyps).Kidney problems can sometimes occur with the use of NSAID medications, including diclofenac. Problems are more likely to occur if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications

See also Drug Interactions section.

Drink plenty of fluids as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration and tell your doctor right away if you have a change in the amount of urine.This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol and tobacco while using this medicine may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and stop smoking. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how much alcohol you may safely drink.This medication may make the treated area more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing when outdoors. Ask your doctor whether you should use sunscreen along with this medication. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).Older adults may be at greater risk for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using this drug.Before using this medication, women of childbearing age should talk with their doctor(s) about the benefits and risks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If your doctor decides that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.It is unknown if this form of diclofenac passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug include: aliskiren, ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers (such as losartan, valsartan), cidofovir, corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone, prednisone), lithium, methotrexate, "water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide).This medication may increase the risk of bleeding when used with other drugs that also may cause bleeding. Examples include anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel, "blood thinners" such as dabigatran/enoxaparin/warfarin, among others.Check all prescription and nonprescription medicine labels carefully since many medications contain pain relievers/fever reducers (aspirin, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, ketorolac, or naproxen). These drugs are similar to diclofenac and may increase your risk of side effects if taken together. However, if your doctor has directed you to take low-dose aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke (usually 81-162 milligrams a day), you should continue taking the aspirin unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Home remedies for heart palpitations

OVERDOSE

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe stomach pain, change in the amount of urine, slow/shallow breathing.

NOTES

Do not share this medication with others.Laboratory and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details. Keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments.Lifestyle changes (such as weight loss if needed, strengthening/conditioning exercises) may help improve your flexibility and joint function. Consult your doctor for specific instructions.

MISSED DOSE

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Q: I tried putting Vicks VapoRub on the soles of my feet to calm a cough last night. It did absolutely nothing for me. If anything, my cough got worse. My feet felt like they were on fire, and the feeling of the Vicks between my toes was just not pleasant. So I will not be doing that ever again. On the plus side, my feet are very soft.

A: Eight years ago, a nurse told us about slathering Vicks VapoRub on the soles of the feet to quiet a nighttime cough. Since then, many others have reported success.

Clearly, as your experience demonstrates, Vicks does not work to ease all coughs. If you have athlete’s foot or cracks between your toes, the camphor, menthol and eucalyptus oil in the ointment might sting.

Q: I have been taking atenolol for several years and have been troubled with symptoms that have gone undiagnosed despite untold hours in doctors’ offices. I have even been hospitalized with extreme dizziness and heart palpitations. Sometimes I gasp for air after simply climbing the stairs to my home. I also suffer with cold feet and hands. Just today, I was at the doctor’s office with chest pain, breathing problems and heart palpitations. She said my blood pressure was 100/60 and told me she thought it was due to the atenolol. She suggested I cut back to every other day. I wonder if this drug has been the problem all along.

Heart Palpitation : What You Can Do - by Dr Willie Ong #53

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A: Atenolol is a beta blocker, like metoprolol and propranolol. Such drugs were once first-line treatments against hypertension, but experts now recommend that they be used only when other approaches are inadequate.

Beta blockers are notorious for causing cold hands and feet, fatigue and dizziness. They also can cause breathing difficulties or make asthma worse.

Atenolol and other beta blockers should never be stopped abruptly, as this could trigger angina or even a heart attack. Alternate-day treatment is untested and might carry risks.

Q: I have a suggestion for the person who wrote about being addicted to nasal spray. I was hooked on Neo-Synephrine for more than 30 years.

Then I read that a prescription for Flonase could help. I was very skeptical, but my doctor had no problem writing me a prescription.

I put one spray in each nostril, and by that evening, I had not used the Neo-Synephrine and threw the bottle away. That was in 1999. I had tried every method I heard about, and nothing worked until I used Flonase, which I still use occasionally. I have shared my experience with other folks who are hooked on nasal sprays.

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A: Fluticasone (Flonase) is a corticosteroid nose spray that helps reduce inflammation. It’s usually prescribed to treat seasonal allergies such as hay fever. It also can ease the rebound congestion that causes such misery when a decongestant nasal spray is halted suddenly.

what is heart palpitations?

Heart palpitations (pal-pih-TAY-shuns) are feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering or pounding heart. Stress, exercise, medication or, rarely, a medical condition can trigger them.

Although heart palpitations can be worrisome, they're usually harmless. In rare cases, they can be a symptom of a more serious heart condition, such as an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), that might require treatment.

How To Cure Heart Palpitations And Top 10 Remedies For Irregular Heartbeat

Symptoms

Heart palpitations can feel like your heart is:

Skipping beats

Fluttering rapidly

Beating too fast

Pounding

Flip-flopping

You might feel heart palpitations in your throat or neck as well as your chest. They can occur when you're active or at rest.

When to see a doctor

Palpitations that are infrequent and last only a few seconds usually don't need to be evaluated. If you have a history of heart disease and have palpitations that occur frequently or worsen, talk to your doctor. He or she might suggest heart-monitoring tests to see if your palpitations are caused by a more serious heart problem.

Seek emergency medical attention if heart palpitations are accompanied by:

Chest discomfort or pain

Fainting

Severe shortness of breath

Severe dizziness

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic

Causes

Often the cause of your heart palpitations can't be found. Common causes include:

Strong emotional responses, such as stress, anxiety or panic attacks

Depression

Strenuous exercise

Stimulants, including caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, amphetamines, and cold and cough medications that contain pseudoephedrine

Fever

Hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy or menopause

Too much or to little thyroid hormone

Occasionally heart palpitations can be a sign of a serious problem, such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

Heart rhythm changes (arrhythmias) might cause a very fast heart rate (tachycardia), an unusually slow heart rate (bradycardia), a normal heart rate that varies from the usual heart rhythm or combination of the three.

Mayo Clinic Treatment of Irregular Heart Beats – A Patient’s Perspective

Risk factors

You might be at risk of developing palpitations if you:

Are highly stressed

Have an anxiety disorder or have regular panic attacks

Are pregnant

Take medicines that contain stimulants, such as some cold or asthma medications

Have an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism)

Have other heart problems, such as an arrhythmia, a heart defect, previous heart attack or previous heart surgery

Complications

Unless a heart condition is causing your heart palpitations, there's little risk of complications. For palpitations caused by a heart condition, possible complications include:

Heart Skips, Flips, Flutters, and Palpitations - When Should Women Worry

Fainting. If your heart beats rapidly, your blood pressure can drop, causing you to faint. This might be more likely if you have a heart problem, such as congenital heart disease or certain valve problems.

Cardiac arrest. Rarely, palpitations can be caused by life-threatening arrhythmias and can cause your heart to stop beating effectively.

Stroke. If palpitations are due to a condition in which the upper chambers of the heart quiver instead of beating properly (atrial fibrillation), blood can pool and cause clots to form. If a clot breaks loose, it can block a brain artery, causing a stroke.

Heart failure. This can result if your heart is pumping ineffectively for a prolonged period due to an arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation. Sometimes, controlling the rate of an arrhythmia that's causing heart failure can improve your heart's function.