Why Does My Pulse Skip A Beat?
February 20, 2023
Heart palpitations, or the feeling of your heart skipping a beat or “flip-flopping” in your chest, are very common.
Shivang Shah, MD, a board-certified cardiologist with Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians in Indianapolis who specializes in cardiac electrophysiology, answers your questions about pulse skipping and atrial fibrillation.
Does A Pulse Skipping A Beat Mean Something Is Wrong With My Heart?
"Heart palpitations, or the feeling of your heart skipping a beat or "flip-flopping" in your chest, are very common," Dr. Shah said. "Sometimes people describe a "strong pulse" in their chest or neck that makes them feel briefly uneasy. Most of the time, the person has no other long-lasting symptoms.
"Usually, heart palpitations with no other symptoms are not serious. Often, stress, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol or medications like pseudoephedrine can be behind them. Heart palpitations also may be a signal that your body is low in potassium or magnesium.
"Sometimes palpitations increase for a short time after exercise because, even though you've stopped your activity, adrenalin levels remain high. Anxiety and panic attacks also can affect your heart rate. Again, if the symptoms go away quickly, there's usually nothing to worry about."
But much more serious, and sometimes deadly, things can throw off the heart's rhythm, including dehydration, a history of heart disease or a heart defect. Medications, intense exertion or anxiety can also trigger heart rhythm changes, or arrhythmias.Can Diet Changes Affect My Heart Palpitations?
Cutting back on coffee or alcohol or switching some medications may reduce heart palpitations.
The American Heart Association suggests that some heart arrhythmias can be prevented with heart-healthy habits:
- A heart-healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, fiber and plenty of water
- Regular exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise
- Weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight
- Quit smoking and other drugs
- Limiting or avoiding caffeine and alcohol
- Practicing stress management and reducing anxiety
- Using medications as directed and tell your doctor about all the medicines or supplements you take, including those bought without a prescription
When Can Heart Palpitations Be A Sign Of Serious Heart Problems?
"Heart palpitations may be a sign of a more serious heart rhythm disorder. When an irregular heartbeat continues or speeds up for longer periods of time, you may have atrial fibrillation (AFib). Untreated, afib can put you at risk for stroke or heart attack."
Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common types of arrhythmia. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 12 million people will experience AFib by 2030. It is described as a rapid, chaotic heartbeat and is associated with an increased risk of blood clots and stroke.
People with AFib usually have other symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweating and confusion.
"Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and their severity, especially if you already have been diagnosed with heart disease or have a family history of heart disease. The right lifestyle changes and the right treatment at the right time are key to staying heart-healthy."
If you happen to be diagnosed with AFib, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist. There are several treatment options for AFib, including medications, surgery and devices to help correct your irregular heartbeat.
HealthDay News contributed information to this article.
