Palpitations

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Heartbeats become more noticeable, or the sensation of slow, rapid or irregular heart rhythms.
Even though they can worry people, they are usually harmless
Most common arrhythmia felt as palpitations are:
– premature ectopic beats- felt as a pause followed by a forceful beat
– paroxysmal tachycardias- felt as sudden, racing heartbeat
– bradycardia- slow, regular, heavy or forceful beats

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

Causes cant usually be found

Might be caused by:
– stress, anxiety or panic attacks
– depression
– fever
– hormone changes
– stimulants- caffeine, cocaine or medications
- too much or too little thyroid hormone

Question 3

Risk factors

Answer 3

Stress
Anxiety
pregnancy
certain medicines that contain stimulants

Question 4

Clinical presentation

Answer 4

Heart palpitations can feel like the heart is:
– beating too fast
– flip-flopping
– fluttering rapidly
– pounding
– skipping beats