Palpitations refer to the uncomfortable awareness of your heartbeat. You may suddenly feel your heart racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats in your chest, neck, or throat. Occasional palpitations are common and often harmless, but persistent or concerning episodes may signal an underlying heart condition and should be evaluated by a cardiologist.
MBBS (SG)|MRCP (UK)|MMed (Internal Med) (SG)|FAMS (Cardiology, SG)
People experiencing palpitations may notice several different sensations related to their heartbeat.
Palpitations can result from various lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and individual circumstances.
Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain medications containing caffeine can stimulate the heart and trigger palpitations in sensitive individuals.
Emotional stress, panic attacks, or anxiety disorders commonly cause palpitations as part of the body’s natural fight-or-flight response.
Intense exercise or sudden physical exertion can cause noticeable heartbeat sensations, particularly in those who are not regularly active.
Drinking alcohol, especially in large amounts of binge drinking, can trigger irregular heartbeats and palpitations.
Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products can stimulate the heart and cause palpitation episodes.
Pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders can affect heart rhythm and lead to palpitation symptoms.
Certain prescription drugs, over-the-counter decongestants, and asthma inhalers may cause palpitations as a side effect.
Lack of adequate sleep can affect heart rhythm and make you more aware of your heartbeat.
Not drinking enough fluids can affect your heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, leading to palpitation sensations.
Underlying heart problems such as arrhythmias, heart valve issues, or heart muscle problems can cause persistent palpitations.
Palpitations can be categorised based on the underlying heart rhythm patterns that cause them.
Extra heartbeats that occur earlier than expected, often felt as a skipped or strong beat.
Fast heart rates above 100 beats per minute, potentially originating from the heart’s upper or lower chambers.
Unpredictable heartbeats, such as atrial fibrillation, causing a chaotic rhythm.
Abnormally slow heart rates that may lead to stronger, noticeable beats.
Several tests and examinations help identify the cause and nature of palpitation symptoms to guide appropriate treatment.
A test that records your heart’s electrical activity using electrodes placed on your chest, arms, and legs to detect rhythm abnormalities.
A portable device worn for a full day that continuously records your heart rhythm to capture palpitations that may not occur during a brief clinic visit.
An ultrasound scan of the heart to assess its structure, valve function, and pumping ability.
Monitors your heart rhythm and blood pressure while you walk on a treadmill to assess for exercise-induced palpitations.
In some cases, a CT Coronary Angiogram may be recommended to assess the heart’s arteries if palpitations are suspected to be linked to reduced blood flow.
Most palpitation cases can be managed through medication, lifestyle modifications, and non-invasive procedures tailored to the underlying cause.
Certain palpitation cases may require minimally invasive procedures when medications and lifestyle changes are insufficient to control symptoms.
Consult our MOH-accredited specialist for a comprehensive diagnosis & personalised treatment plan today.
Managing palpitations often involves identifying and avoiding personal triggers while following heart-healthy habits. Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, staying hydrated, and ensuring adequate sleep can help reduce palpitations.
You should consult a cardiologist if you:
A cardiologist can perform specialised tests to identify the cause of your palpitations and recommend appropriate treatment to manage symptoms and protect your heart health.
Many people find their palpitations remain stable or improve with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. The progression depends largely on the underlying cause and how well it responds to treatment.
Yes, palpitations can disrupt sleep patterns, either by waking you during episodes or creating anxiety about sleeping. Sleep position changes and establishing a calming bedtime routine may help reduce nighttime palpitations.
Feeling anxious about palpitations is completely understandable, as the sensation can be frightening. However, anxiety itself can trigger more palpitations, creating a cycle that proper medical evaluation and reassurance can help break.
Checking your pulse occasionally can help you understand your normal heart rate patterns, but excessive monitoring may increase anxiety. Your doctor can advise whether regular pulse checking would be helpful for your specific situation.
Dr. Kua is a senior consultant cardiologist specialised in interventional cardiology and is the medical director at Carrington Cardiology.
Prior to this, he served as an International Cardiology Fellow and Honorary Consultant at Hammersmith Hospital Imperial Healthcare Trust, where he gained valuable experience in various prestigious healthcare institutions.
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth, #12-02 Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
Mon to Fri: 09:00am – 05:00pm
Sat: 09:00am – 12:30pm
Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
Leave us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth, #12-02 Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
Mon to Fri: 09:00am – 05:00pm
Sat: 09:00am – 12:30pm
Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
