Heart Palpitations and Irregular Beats
Palpitations are a racing, pounding, fluttering or skipping heartbeat. Many are harmless, but an irregular pulse can be a sign of AFib or another rhythm problem, so it is worth getting checked.
What palpitations can feel like
People describe palpitations in a lot of ways. You might feel:
- A fluttering in your chest
- A pounding or racing heartbeat, even at rest
- A skipped or extra beat
- A heartbeat that feels irregular or out of step
Sometimes palpitations come with shortness of breath or feeling tired. Sometimes they come and go. And sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and the first sign is a home blood pressure machine that shows an irregular heartbeat.
FCCI's heart rhythm doctors treat a range of rhythm problems, including atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and ventricular arrhythmias. The first step is finding out which rhythm, if any, is behind what you feel.
Keep a simple log of each episode, including the time and what you were doing.
When palpitations are an emergency
Do not wait for an office visit if palpitations come with any of these:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fainting or nearly fainting
- Severe shortness of breath
- Sudden face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech
Emergency? Palpitations that come with chest pain, fainting, trouble breathing, or stroke signs (a drooping face, a weak arm, slurred speech) mean call 911 now.
FCCI asks patients to call during normal business hours, 8AM to 5PM, for both urgent and non-urgent matters, and to call 911 or go to the emergency room for an emergency.
When in doubt about whether something is an emergency, it is always OK to call 911. Emergency teams would rather check you and find nothing than have you wait at home.
How a rhythm doctor figures it out
At your visit, your doctor will ask when the palpitations happen, how long they last and what you were doing. Bring a list of your medications and any readings from a home blood pressure cuff or smartwatch if you have them.
FCCI's testing team works with tools such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), Holter monitors and event recorders. These record your heart's rhythm so the doctor can see what is going on when you feel symptoms. Your doctor will decide which tests you need.
Once the rhythm is known, the plan follows. That might be reassurance, a medication, lifestyle changes, or a procedure such as ablation. To book with an FCCI heart rhythm specialist, call 904.493.3333.
Most of this testing is done in the office or at home while you go about your day.
Talk with a specialist.
New patients are welcome. Call 904.493.3333, Mon to Fri, 8am to 5pm, or request a visit online.
Are heart palpitations always serious?
No. Many are harmless. But because some are caused by AFib or other rhythm problems, it is smart to have them checked, especially if they keep coming back.
What if palpitations come with chest pain or fainting?
Call 911 right away. Do not drive yourself and do not wait for an appointment.
What tests check for an irregular heartbeat?
Common tools include an EKG, a Holter monitor and an event recorder. Your doctor will pick the right test for you.
How do I see an FCCI rhythm doctor?
Call 904.493.3333 to schedule. New patients are welcome.