7 Common Heart Palpitations Symptoms You Should Know

Heart palpitations are sensations where you become suddenly aware of your own heartbeat. They can feel like your heart is racing, pounding, fluttering, or beating irregularly. While palpitations can be alarming, they are often harmless and temporary. However, understanding what heart palpitations feel like and recognizing their symptoms is important for determining when medical attention may be necessary.

Most people experience heart palpitations at some point in their lives. These sensations can occur in your chest, throat, or neck and may last for a few seconds to several minutes. Palpitations can happen when you’re active or at rest, and they may occur occasionally or more frequently depending on the underlying cause.

1. Fluttering Sensation in the Chest

One of the most commonly reported symptoms of heart palpitations is a fluttering feeling in the chest. This sensation is often described as feeling like butterflies in your chest or as if your heart is quivering rather than beating steadily.

The fluttering sensation occurs when the heart rhythm becomes temporarily irregular or when you become more aware of your normal heartbeat. Many people describe this feeling as their heart “doing flip-flops” or experiencing a light, rapid trembling sensation behind the breastbone.

This symptom can be particularly noticeable when you’re lying down or sitting quietly, as there are fewer distractions to take your attention away from the sensation. The fluttering may come and go quickly, or it may persist for several seconds or minutes before returning to normal.

2. Rapid Heartbeat (Heart Racing)

Heart racing, also known as tachycardia, is another prominent symptom of palpitations. This occurs when your heart suddenly beats much faster than its normal resting rate, which typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute for adults.

During an episode of heart racing, you may feel like your heart is pounding rapidly in your chest, and you might be able to feel or hear each individual beat. The sensation can be intense and may cause anxiety or discomfort. Some people describe it as feeling like their heart is trying to beat out of their chest.

Heart racing can be triggered by various factors including:

• Physical exertion or exercise
• Emotional stress or anxiety
• Caffeine or stimulant consumption
• Certain medications or substances
• Fever or dehydration

The rapid heartbeat may begin suddenly and can last anywhere from a few seconds to several hours in some cases. While often harmless, persistent or frequent episodes of heart racing should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

3. Pounding or Throbbing Heart

A pounding or throbbing sensation is characterized by feeling strong, forceful heartbeats that seem more powerful than usual. Unlike the gentle flutter described earlier, this symptom involves feeling each heartbeat as a distinct, heavy thump in your chest.

The pounding sensation can be strong enough that you might notice your chest or even your entire body moving with each heartbeat. Some people can see their shirt moving or feel the pulse points in their neck throbbing visibly. This symptom can be particularly noticeable when lying down on your left side or after physical activity.

The intensity of the pounding can vary from mildly uncomfortable to quite distressing. This sensation may be accompanied by an awareness that your heart is working harder than usual, even if you’re at rest. The pounding may affect your ability to concentrate or relax, and it might make it difficult to fall asleep if it occurs at bedtime.

4. Skipped Beats or Pauses

Many people experiencing heart palpitations describe the sensation of their heart skipping a beat or experiencing a brief pause. This feeling is often caused by premature heartbeats, where the heart contracts earlier than expected, followed by a compensatory pause that can feel like your heart has stopped momentarily.

What you’re actually experiencing is typically a premature ventricular contraction (PVC) or premature atrial contraction (PAC). These are extra heartbeats that occur before the regular heartbeat, disrupting the normal rhythm. The pause that follows can create a sensation of your heart “stopping” or “missing” a beat.

This symptom can be particularly unsettling because:

• It feels like your heart rhythm is interrupted
• The pause may be followed by a stronger-than-normal beat
• It can create a momentary feeling of unease or anxiety
• The sensation might make you catch your breath

While skipped beats are usually benign and common in healthy individuals, frequent occurrences or those accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or chest pain warrant medical evaluation.

5. Irregular Heartbeat

An irregular heartbeat symptom involves feeling that your heart is beating in an unpredictable or uneven pattern. Unlike the steady, rhythmic beating you normally wouldn’t notice, an irregular heartbeat feels chaotic, with beats occurring at uneven intervals.

This symptom can manifest as a combination of fast beats, slow beats, and pauses without any predictable pattern. You might feel like your heart rhythm is “all over the place” or that your heart cannot find its normal steady pace. The irregularity can be constant during an episode or can come and go.

People experiencing this symptom often describe it as:

• A stumbling or stuttering heartbeat
• An erratic or unpredictable rhythm
• Beats that seem out of sync
• A sensation that the heart doesn’t know what it’s doing

While occasional irregular beats are common and often harmless, persistent irregular heartbeats can sometimes indicate conditions like atrial fibrillation and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, weakness, or chest discomfort.

6. Neck or Throat Pulsations

Heart palpitations aren’t always felt exclusively in the chest. Many people experience noticeable pulsations or throbbing sensations in their neck or throat. This occurs because the major blood vessels in the neck carry blood from the heart, and when your heart beats forcefully or irregularly, these pulsations become more apparent.

The sensation in the neck or throat can feel like:

• A pulsing or throbbing feeling on either side of the neck
• A sensation of your pulse being visible or palpable in your throat
• Pressure or fullness in the neck area that pulses with your heartbeat
• A feeling that your blood vessels are jumping or moving

This symptom can be particularly noticeable when you’re lying down or when your head is tilted at certain angles. Some people find this sensation more disturbing than chest palpitations because it’s in such close proximity to the throat and can sometimes create a choking sensation or the feeling that something is caught in the throat.

The neck pulsations typically occur simultaneously with chest palpitations and follow the same pattern—whether that’s racing, fluttering, or pounding. Being able to feel or see your pulse in your neck doesn’t necessarily indicate a more serious problem; it simply reflects increased awareness of your heartbeat in that area.

7. Breathlessness or Chest Discomfort

Heart palpitations are often accompanied by breathlessness or a sensation of not being able to catch your breath properly. This symptom can range from mild shortness of breath to feeling like you need to take deep breaths to get enough air. The breathlessness may occur because the irregular heart rhythm temporarily affects the heart’s efficiency in pumping blood.

Chest discomfort associated with palpitations can present as:

• A tight or pressure-like feeling in the chest
• Mild aching or discomfort in the chest area
• A sensation of fullness or heaviness
• Discomfort that’s difficult to describe precisely

It’s important to distinguish between the mild chest discomfort that sometimes accompanies palpitations and true chest pain. The discomfort associated with palpitations is usually:

• Mild to moderate in intensity
• Not sharp or crushing
• Related directly to the awareness of the heartbeat
• Relieved when the palpitations stop

However, if you experience severe chest pain, intense pressure, pain radiating to the arm or jaw, or breathlessness that doesn’t improve, seek immediate medical attention as these could indicate a more serious cardiac event. The combination of palpitations with severe breathlessness, especially if accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or severe chest pain, requires urgent medical evaluation.

What Causes Heart Palpitations

Understanding what causes heart palpitations can help you identify triggers and manage them more effectively. Heart palpitations can result from a wide variety of causes, ranging from completely benign lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Caffeine and Stimulants: Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain medications containing stimulants are common triggers. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system and can increase heart rate and cause palpitations, especially in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large amounts.

Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress, anxiety, panic attacks, and intense emotions trigger the release of stress hormones like adrenaline, which can cause your heart to race or beat irregularly. The mind-body connection is powerful, and psychological stress is one of the most common causes of palpitations.

Physical Activity: Intense exercise or sudden physical exertion can cause temporary palpitations. While exercise-induced palpitations are usually normal, persistent palpitations during exercise should be evaluated.

Alcohol and Smoking: Alcohol consumption, particularly binge drinking, and nicotine from cigarettes or vaping can trigger palpitations by affecting heart rhythm and stimulating the cardiovascular system.

Lack of Sleep: Sleep deprivation and fatigue can disrupt your body’s natural rhythms and increase the likelihood of experiencing palpitations.

Hormonal and Physiological Changes

Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy commonly cause palpitations. These are usually harmless but should be mentioned to your healthcare provider.

Menstruation and Menopause: Hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles and menopause can trigger palpitations in some women.

Thyroid Problems: An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) speeds up metabolism and can cause rapid heartbeat and palpitations. Thyroid hormones directly affect heart rate and rhythm.

Medical Conditions

Heart Rhythm Disorders: Arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, or premature ventricular contractions can cause palpitations. These conditions involve abnormal electrical signals in the heart.

Heart Conditions: Structural heart problems, heart valve disorders, or previous heart damage can lead to palpitations.

Anemia: Low red blood cell counts mean less oxygen is delivered to tissues, causing the heart to work harder and beat faster.

Low Blood Sugar: Hypoglycemia can trigger palpitations as the body releases stress hormones in response to low glucose levels.

Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalances: Insufficient fluid intake or imbalances in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and sodium can affect heart rhythm.

Medications and Substances

Certain medications can cause palpitations as a side effect, including:

• Asthma inhalers containing bronchodilators
• Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine
• Some blood pressure medications
• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy
• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medications
• Diet pills and supplements

If you suspect your medication is causing palpitations, consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Prevention and Management Tips

While not all heart palpitations can be prevented, especially those caused by underlying medical conditions, there are several strategies you can implement to reduce their frequency and severity.

Lifestyle Modifications

Limit Stimulants: Reduce or eliminate caffeine intake by limiting coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate. Pay attention to hidden sources of caffeine in medications and supplements. If you’re a regular caffeine consumer, reduce intake gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Avoid or Limit Alcohol: Reduce alcohol consumption or avoid it entirely, as it’s a common trigger for palpitations. Be especially cautious about binge drinking, which can significantly increase the risk of heart rhythm disturbances.

Quit Smoking: Eliminate tobacco and nicotine products, including cigarettes, cigars, and vaping devices. Nicotine is a stimulant that directly affects heart rate and rhythm.

Stay Hydrated: Drink adequate water throughout the day to maintain proper hydration. Dehydration can trigger palpitations and affect electrolyte balance.

Stress Management

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate stress-reduction methods into your daily routine such as:

• Deep breathing exercises and diaphragmatic breathing
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Yoga or tai chi
• Regular physical activity appropriate for your fitness level

Improve Sleep Habits: Establish a regular sleep schedule with 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and maintain a comfortable sleep environment.

Manage Anxiety: If anxiety is a trigger, consider working with a mental health professional to develop coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be particularly effective for anxiety-related palpitations.

Dietary and Nutritional Approaches

Maintain Balanced Blood Sugar: Eat regular, balanced meals to prevent blood sugar drops. Include complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in your diet.

Ensure Adequate Electrolytes: Consume foods rich in potassium (bananas, sweet potatoes, spinach), magnesium (nuts, seeds, whole grains), and calcium (dairy products, leafy greens). Consider having your electrolyte levels checked if you experience frequent palpitations.

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting processed foods, excess sodium, and saturated fats.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many palpitations are harmless, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Chest pain or severe chest discomfort
• Severe shortness of breath
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Loss of consciousness
• Palpitations accompanied by weakness or fatigue
• Palpitations that last for extended periods without resolution

Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if:

• Palpitations become more frequent or severe
• You have a history of heart disease
• Palpitations interfere with daily activities or quality of life
• You develop new symptoms along with palpitations
• You have concerns about your heart health

Frequently Asked Questions

What do heart palpitations feel like?

Heart palpitations can feel like your heart is racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats. You might feel a sensation in your chest, neck, or throat that makes you suddenly aware of your heartbeat. Some people describe it as butterflies in the chest, while others feel like their heart is beating out of their chest or pausing momentarily.

Are heart palpitations dangerous?

Most heart palpitations are harmless and temporary, often caused by lifestyle factors like caffeine, stress, or lack of sleep. However, they can sometimes indicate an underlying heart condition, especially if they’re frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or fainting. It’s important to have persistent or concerning palpitations evaluated by a healthcare provider.

How long do heart palpitations typically last?

Heart palpitations can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. Most episodes are brief and resolve on their own. If palpitations last for hours or occur frequently throughout the day, you should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.

Can anxiety cause heart palpitations?

Yes, anxiety is one of the most common causes of heart palpitations. When you’re anxious or stressed, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline, which can increase your heart rate and cause palpitations. Anxiety-related palpitations are generally harmless but can be distressing. Managing anxiety through relaxation techniques, therapy, or other methods can help reduce these episodes.

When should I see a doctor about heart palpitations?

You should seek immediate medical attention if palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, severe shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness. Schedule a regular appointment with your doctor if palpitations become frequent, last for extended periods, interfere with daily activities, or cause significant concern. It’s also important to see a doctor if you have a history of heart disease or other risk factors.

Can dehydration cause palpitations?

Yes, dehydration is a common trigger for heart palpitations. When you’re dehydrated, your blood volume decreases, and electrolyte imbalances can occur, both of which can affect heart rhythm. Staying properly hydrated by drinking adequate water throughout the day can help prevent dehydration-related palpitations.

Do heart palpitations happen at night?

Heart palpitations can occur at any time, including at night. Many people notice them more when lying down to sleep because there are fewer distractions and they’re more aware of their body sensations. Nighttime palpitations can also be related to eating close to bedtime, sleep position, anxiety, or sleep disorders. If nighttime palpitations frequently disrupt your sleep, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Can caffeine cause heart palpitations?

Yes, caffeine is a well-known trigger for heart palpitations. As a stimulant, caffeine increases heart rate and can cause irregular heartbeats, especially in people who are sensitive to it or consume large amounts. If you experience palpitations, try reducing or eliminating caffeine from sources like coffee, tea, energy drinks, soda, and chocolate to see if your symptoms improve.

References:

• Mayo Clinic – Heart Palpitations
• American Heart Association – Palpitations
• NHS – Heart Palpitations
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Heart Palpitations
• Healthline – Heart Palpitations
• WebMD – Heart Palpitations