Putting It All Together

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to palpitations.

• Palpitations are a sensation that the heart is beating rapidly, slowly, forcefully, or irregularly.

• The majority of palpitations are not of major significance and are not a sign of underlying heart disease. They are more common as you get older.

• If your palpitations do not happen often and do not last long, you can make changes in your lifestyle that may help to stop or reduce them.

• If your palpitations happen more than once a week, last more than a half minute, or are associated with other symptoms such as sweating, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, your should see your doctor.

• Often, your doctor can rule out serious problems through a physical examination and simple tests. Occasionally, other tests such as cardiac catheterization are needed.

• Treatments available for conditions that cause palpitations include medications, catheter ablation, the use of an artificial pacemaker or implanted defibrillator, and cardioversion/defibrillation.