When Should Palpitations Be a Cause for Concern? Here Are the Signs

 

 

A rapid or strong heartbeat can sometimes cause discomfort and even concern. This condition, known as palpitations, is generally not a sign of a serious problem. However, palpitations accompanied by certain symptoms warrant attention. So, what makes palpitations dangerous? Learn more about palpitations in the following article.

 

Are Palpitations Dangerous?

 

Palpitations are rapid and irregular heartbeats. This condition is often felt in the chest but may also radiate to the neck or throat. While typically not considered dangerous, palpitations under certain circumstances should not be overlooked.

 

Palpitations are one of the most common complaints among patients visiting emergency departments, primary care providers, or cardiologists. Research indicates that approximately 16% of patients seeking primary care report experiencing palpitations.

 

The term palpitations describes abnormal, rapid, or irregular heartbeats. It is a sensory symptom often described as skipped beats, a racing heart, or a fluttering sensation in the chest or neck.

 

Although the causes of palpitations are usually benign, they can sometimes signal a life-threatening condition. Consulting a doctor is necessary if palpitations occur alongside the following symptoms:

 

• Chest pain.

• Shortness of breath.

• Fainting or loss of consciousness.

• Severe spinning dizziness.

• Recurrent or worsening palpitations over time.

• Prolonged episodes of palpitations lasting several minutes or more.

• A family history of heart disease.

 

When Should Palpitations Be a Cause for Concern?

 

As previously mentioned, palpitations are generally harmless. Nonetheless, there are instances in which immediate medical attention is necessary, especially if accompanied by the following conditions:

 

A. Elevated Heart Rate

 

During palpitations, immediately check your heart rate by feeling your pulse using a heart monitor or a smartwatch. A heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute that is not caused by physical activity, intense exercise, or recent caffeine intake, combined with the symptoms mentioned earlier, could indicate arrhythmia. This condition requires prompt medical evaluation.

 

B. Prolonged Duration

 

Normal palpitations typically last briefly. If palpitations persist for more than a few minutes, such as an hour or longer, further evaluation is necessary. Even in the absence of other symptoms, prolonged palpitations may signal a serious underlying issue.

 

C. Advanced Age

 

In individuals aged 60 or older, palpitations may indicate significant medical concerns. This is especially true for those with no prior history of palpitations. One potential cause of this symptom is atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia that can lead to a stroke and other complications if left untreated.

 

D. Accompanied by Other Symptoms

 

Irregular heartbeats that persist for a long time may be caused by arrhythmia. Some symptoms to watch for during palpitations include chest pain, low blood pressure (hypotension), loss of consciousness or fainting, shock, and signs of heart failure. To prevent potentially fatal outcomes, contact the nearest hospital for emergency care.

 

When Are Palpitations Considered Harmless?

 

Palpitations are usually not indicative of a serious condition and often resolve without requiring medical intervention. Below are some characteristics of harmless palpitations:

 

• Occur infrequently.

• Triggered by caffeine consumption, such as from coffee, energy drinks, or medications containing caffeine.

• Short in duration.

• Not associated with heart conditions or a family history of cardiac issues.

• Not accompanied by dangerous symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, shock, chest pain, hypotension, or signs of acute heart failure. 

 

When Should You See a Doctor?

 

Mild palpitations can often be managed by adopting lifestyle changes, such as reducing the intake of high-caffeine beverages and managing stress. Nevertheless, immediately consult a doctor if palpitations induce pain.

 

To identify the underlying cause, the doctor will begin with a medical interview (an anamnesis) to assess the patient’s medical history and family health history. Afterward, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, including vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature) and cardiac auscultation using a stethoscope. Moreover, the doctor may recommend an electrocardiogram (EKG) to evaluate the heart rhythm.

 

Palpitations are generally not a cause for concern and often do not require medical intervention. However, they may indicate a more serious condition if accompanied by other symptoms. If you experience discomfort or prolonged palpitations, do not hesitate to consult a Cardiologist at the nearest Siloam Hospitals for an accurate diagnosis.

 

The doctor will conduct examinations based on each patient's condition to determine the appropriate treatment. Furthermore, the diagnostic and treatment process will be adjusted based on the facilities available at each hospital, which may lead to varying procedures between locations.

To consult a doctor with ease, you can utilize the MySiloam app. This app allows you to browse doctors’ schedules, book an appointment with the relevant doctor, and access your health examination results online. Download MySiloam now to enjoy various features that can facilitate your healthcare journey.