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Heart Palpitations

Understanding the rhythm of your heart.

Symptom Overview

Anatomy of a heart

Heart palpitations are feelings like your heart is missing heartbeats, racing, pounding, flip-flopping, or fluttering. You can feel them in your chest, throat, or neck. They can happen at any time, even at rest. While often harmless, they can sometimes indicate an abnormal heart rhythm requiring medical attention. They are more common in females and can occur at various life stages, including during pregnancy or menopause.

Causes

Emotional & Physical

  • Emotions: Anxiety, stress, fear, and panic.
  • Physical Activity: Exercise.

Physiological Changes

  • Pregnancy, overactive thyroid, low levels of sugar, potassium, or oxygen, low carbon dioxide in blood, fever, anemia, dehydration, blood loss.

Substances

  • Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, recreational drugs (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines).

Medications & Triggers

  • Asthma inhalers, beta-blockers, thyroid drugs, antiarrhythmic medicines, some cough/cold medicines (decongestants), certain herbal and nutritional supplements.
  • Specific Triggers: Spicy or rich foods (especially after eating), sleeping on your side (can increase pressure).

Natural Remedies & Lifestyle Tips

If anxiety or stress causes heart palpitations, calming activities can help. To prevent or reduce the frequency of heart palpitations:

  • **Stress Reduction:** Practice deep-breathing, relaxation exercises, yoga, tai chi, guided imagery, or biofeedback techniques.
  • **Dietary Adjustments:** Avoid or limit alcohol and caffeine intake. Avoid foods and activities that trigger palpitations (e.g., spicy or rich foods).
  • **Avoidance:** Do not use tobacco or nicotine products.
  • **Exercise:** Exercise regularly, but consult a healthcare provider for appropriate programs, especially if you have existing conditions.
  • **Health Management:** Control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Product Recommendations

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A natural blend designed to promote calmness and reduce stress.

Ashwagandha Root Capsules

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An adaptogenic herb known for its stress-reducing and balancing properties.

Bodymune Heart Health Blend

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A USDA organic supplement formulated to support cardiovascular health and cholesterol management.

When to See a Doctor

Call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately if heart palpitations won't stop or if you experience any of these severe symptoms:

  • Passing out.
  • More intense pain, pressure, or tightness in your chest, neck, jaw, arm(s), or upper back.
  • Trouble breathing.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

  • You have palpitations sometimes but without the severe symptoms listed above.
  • Your palpitations get worse or suddenly happen more often.

You should worry about heart palpitations if they are accompanied by:

  • Feeling dizzy, confused, or lightheaded.
  • Chest pain or pressure.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Unusual sweating.
  • Worse or more frequent palpitations.

Get Your Free Guide to Heart Health!

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