A noticeable heartbeat, often described as a pounding, fluttering, or the sensation of a missed beat, is known as a heart palpitation. These feelings can occur in the chest, throat, or neck. While unsettling, these sensations are common and typically do not indicate a serious health problem. However, there are instances when a skipped heartbeat could signal an underlying medical condition, prompting a closer look at the body’s signals.
Common Reasons for Skipped Heartbeats
Many factors not directly related to heart disease can cause skipped heartbeats. Stress and anxiety frequently trigger palpitations, as the body’s “fight-or-flight” response releases hormones that temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Consuming stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can also lead to palpitations. Caffeine can stimulate the central nervous system, causing the heart to beat faster and potentially trigger irregular rhythms. Dehydration can reduce blood volume, compelling the heart to work harder to circulate blood, which may result in a feeling of skipped beats.
Hormonal fluctuations play a role, with many women experiencing palpitations during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels can influence the heart’s electrical activity, leading to these sensations. Intense physical exercise temporarily raises heart rate, and certain over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants or diet pills, can have stimulant effects that induce palpitations.
Symptoms That Indicate Concern
While most skipped heartbeats are harmless, certain accompanying symptoms suggest a need for medical attention. When palpitations occur alongside dizziness or a feeling of lightheadedness, it can signal that the heart is not adequately pumping blood to the brain. Fainting or near-fainting spells with palpitations are particularly concerning, as they might indicate a significant disruption in heart rhythm.
Chest pain or discomfort with a skipped heartbeat warrants immediate evaluation, as these could be signs of a more serious cardiac issue. Shortness of breath or unusual sweating along with palpitations indicates the body might be under strain. Fatigue unrelated to physical activity, when combined with palpitations, also requires medical assessment.
It is the combination of a skipped heartbeat with these additional symptoms that should raise alarm. If palpitations are persistent, last longer than a few minutes, or become more frequent or intense, professional advice is important to investigate a potential underlying problem.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many skipped heartbeats are harmless, certain situations warrant medical consultation. A doctor’s visit is warranted if you experience a new onset of frequent skipped heartbeats, or if existing palpitations begin to occur more often or last longer than a few minutes.
A family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac death also increases the importance of seeking medical guidance for palpitations. If palpitations significantly interfere with your daily life, cause persistent anxiety, or if your resting pulse rate is consistently over 100 beats per minute, consult a doctor.
What to Expect at a Medical Appointment
During a medical appointment for skipped heartbeats, a doctor will typically begin with a physical exam and a thorough review of your medical history. This includes questions about your symptoms, lifestyle habits, current medications, and any relevant family history of heart conditions. The doctor will listen to your heart to detect any unusual sounds or rhythms.
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart. This test assesses your heart’s rate and rhythm at the moment of examination. If palpitations do not occur during the brief ECG, a Holter monitor might be recommended.
A Holter monitor is a portable device worn for 24 to 48 hours that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity as you go about your daily routine. This extended monitoring helps capture irregular heartbeats not present during a short office visit. Blood tests may also be performed to check for other potential causes of palpitations, such as thyroid imbalances, anemia, or electrolyte abnormalities.