palpitacjami

Palpitations are a subjective sensation of the heart beating unusually. Individuals often describe them as feeling like their heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, pounding, or beating too fast or too irregularly. These sensations can occur at any time, whether a person is resting or active, and can last from a few seconds to several minutes. While often alarming, palpitations are frequently benign and can be triggered by various factors.

Common causes of palpitations include stress, anxiety, fear, or excitement, as well as physical exertion. Certain substances can also induce them, such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and some medications, including decongestants and asthma inhalers. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation, can also contribute to palpitations.

In some cases, palpitations can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. These can include heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) like atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia, or heart conditions such as valvular heart disease or heart failure. Other medical issues like anemia, an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can also cause palpitations. If palpitations are frequent, prolonged, accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, it is advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.