Symptoms and Side Effects
Heart Palpitations
Feeling Your Heart Beat Differently?
Heart palpitations are the uncomfortable sensation that your heart is beating fast, irregularly, or skipping a beat. You may feel fluttering or pounding in your chest. While palpitations can sometimes point to a heart issue, they’re often caused by other factors like stress, fatigue, dehydration, or certain medications.
How to Care for Yourself at Home
Avoid Triggers
- Stay away from caffeine, nicotine, and excess alcohol.
- Do not use drugs that have not been prescribed for you.
- Skip diet pills or weight loss supplements unless approved by your doctor.
- Check labels: antihistamines, decongestants, and some herbal products can trigger palpitations.
Support Your Body
- Stay well hydrated.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Take your medications exactly as prescribed.
Calm Your Body When Palpitations Start
- Try slow, deep breathing to help relax your body and potentially slow a racing heart.
- If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, lie down right away to prevent a fall.
Keep a Palpitation Log
Track each episode to help your care team understand what’s happening. Include:
- Date and time
- Your pulse, if you can measure it
- What you were doing when it started
- How long it lasted
- Any other symptoms you noticed
When to Call for Help
Reach out to your doctor if:
- Palpitations are new or happening more often
- You have questions about heart rhythm medications
- You notice additional symptoms like:
- Mild leg swelling
- Mild shortness of breath
Call 911 if:
- You faint or feel like you’re about to pass out
- You have chest pain or trouble breathing
