What Causes Heart Palpitations? Key Factors & Causes

Decoding Those Flutters: Understanding Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations—that racing, fluttering, or skipped beat—can be worrisome. This listicle identifies eight common causes of heart palpitations, helping you determine what triggers yours and when medical attention is necessary. Understanding what causes heart palpitations empowers you to take appropriate action. From everyday factors like stress and caffeine to more serious conditions like arrhythmias, we'll cover the key culprits. This knowledge is crucial for anyone experiencing palpitations, especially those using wearable ECG devices or managing existing heart conditions. If frequent palpitations are a concern, consider Qaly for expert analysis of your at-home ECG readings.

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1. Stress and Anxiety

One of the most common culprits behind heart palpitations is stress and anxiety. When your body is under stress, it releases a surge of hormones, such as adrenaline, designed to prepare you for a "fight-or-flight" response. This hormonal surge can lead to a rapid increase in heart rate, triggering the sensation of palpitations. These palpitations can manifest as a racing or pounding heart, fluttering sensations in the chest, or the feeling of skipped beats. This response, while unsettling, is often a normal physiological reaction and not necessarily indicative of an underlying heart condition. Understanding the connection between stress and heart palpitations can be a crucial first step in managing these sometimes frightening episodes.

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Stress-induced palpitations are frequently triggered by specific stressful situations or general periods of heightened anxiety. These palpitations are typically temporary and subside once the stressor is removed or the anxiety lessens. For example, you might experience palpitations before a high-pressure presentation at work, during a challenging interview, or amidst a particularly stressful period of juggling work and family responsibilities. Other anxiety symptoms, such as sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath, may accompany these palpitations. In more severe cases, such as during a panic attack, the palpitations can be quite intense and contribute significantly to the overall feeling of panic.

Features of Stress-Induced Palpitations:

• Triggered by stressful situations or anxiety episodes
• Often temporary and resolve when stress subsides
• May be accompanied by other anxiety symptoms like sweating or trembling
• Can occur during panic attacks

Pros:

• Usually benign and not indicative of heart disease
• Can serve as a physical signal to address stress levels

Cons:

• Can create a cycle of anxiety about the palpitations, which then triggers further palpitations
• May be difficult to distinguish from more serious heart issues without consulting a doctor
• Can significantly impact quality of life if frequent

Examples:

• Palpitations before a major presentation or job interview
• Heart racing during a panic attack
• Feeling heart flutters during periods of high work stress or family conflict

Tips for Managing Stress-Induced Palpitations:

• Practice deep breathing exercises: During an episode, focusing on slow, deep breaths can help regulate your heart rate and calm your nervous system.
• Incorporate regular stress management techniques: Engage in activities like meditation, yoga, tai chi, or spending time in nature to reduce overall stress levels.
• Keep a diary: Track your palpitations, noting when they occur, what you were doing, and how you were feeling. This can help you identify specific triggers and patterns.

This information is vital for anyone experiencing heart palpitations, particularly those using wearable ECG devices like Apple Watch, Fitbit, or Kardia. While stress and anxiety are common causes, it's always essential to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying heart conditions. They can provide personalized advice and help you develop a plan to manage your palpitations effectively. Understanding the root cause of your palpitations is crucial for both peace of mind and ensuring you receive appropriate medical care if needed.

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2. Caffeine and Stimulants

If you're wondering "what causes heart palpitations," caffeine and other stimulants are frequent culprits. These substances directly affect the central nervous system, triggering palpitations by increasing heart rate and strengthening heart contractions. This makes them a significant factor to consider when experiencing irregular heartbeats. Common sources of these stimulants include coffee, tea, energy drinks, certain medications (like some decongestants), and illegal stimulant drugs.

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The infographic above visualizes the relationship between caffeine/stimulants and heart palpitations. The central concept is the stimulatory effect of these substances on the cardiovascular system. Branching out from this central idea are the sources of caffeine and stimulants (coffee, tea, energy drinks, etc.), the physiological effects (increased heart rate, stronger contractions), and the resulting symptom: heart palpitations. It also highlights individual sensitivity and dose-dependency as modifying factors influencing the intensity of the effects. The infographic further connects these concepts to potential outcomes like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and even serious cardiovascular issues if consumption is excessive or combined with pre-existing conditions. The most important relationship visualized is the direct link between consuming caffeine/stimulants and experiencing heart palpitations.

As illustrated in the infographic, the effect of caffeine and stimulants is often dose-dependent, meaning more caffeine typically leads to stronger reactions. However, individual sensitivity varies greatly. Some individuals might experience palpitations after a single cup of coffee, while others can tolerate higher doses without noticeable effects. The effects usually begin within 15-45 minutes of consumption and can interact with other palpitation triggers such as stress or anxiety. This is why it's crucial to understand your personal tolerance level.

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Examples of caffeine-induced palpitations include:

• Heart racing after multiple cups of coffee
• Palpitations after consuming energy drinks
• Irregular heartbeat sensations after taking certain decongestants

Pros of identifying caffeine as a trigger:

• Easily identifiable and modifiable cause
• Typically resolves when intake is reduced or eliminated

Cons of caffeine as a potential trigger:

• Present in many common foods and beverages
• Can cause withdrawal symptoms when reducing intake (headaches, fatigue)
• May be found in unexpected sources (some medications, chocolate, certain pain relievers)

Tips for managing caffeine-induced palpitations:

• Track caffeine intake: Keep a diary of your caffeine consumption to identify your personal threshold for palpitations.
• Reduce consumption gradually: Abruptly stopping caffeine intake can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Gradually decrease your intake to minimize these effects.
• Read labels carefully: Be mindful of hidden caffeine in medications, over-the-counter drugs, and even foods.
• Be aware of surprising sources: Remember that caffeine is present in chocolate, some pain relievers, and even decaffeinated coffee (though in smaller amounts).

Caffeine and stimulants deserve a place on this list because they are a common and easily modifiable cause of heart palpitations. By understanding their effects and managing your intake, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing these unsettling sensations. While energy drink brands and pre-workout supplements popularize these substances for their stimulating effects, it's crucial to be aware of their potential impact on heart health.

3. Arrhythmias and Heart Conditions

Heart palpitations, those unsettling moments when your heart seems to flutter, skip a beat, or race, can be triggered by a variety of factors. One of the most common causes of palpitations is a group of conditions known as arrhythmias. Arrhythmias are abnormalities in your heart's rhythm, disrupting the regular pattern of your heartbeat. This disruption occurs when the electrical signals that coordinate your heart's contractions malfunction. Understanding arrhythmias is crucial when exploring what causes heart palpitations, as they can range from benign irregularities to serious, even life-threatening, conditions.

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Several specific types of arrhythmias are frequently associated with heart palpitations. These include:

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib): This is the most common type of arrhythmia and causes an irregular and often rapid heart rate. It can feel like a quivering or fluttering sensation in the chest.

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• Atrial flutter: Similar to AFib, atrial flutter involves rapid, but typically more regular, contractions in the atria (the upper chambers of the heart)‍
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): SVT is a broad term encompassing several types of fast heart rhythms originating above the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart). It often causes sudden episodes of a racing heart.‍
• Ventricular tachycardia (VT): VT is a rapid heart rhythm originating in the ventricles. It can be very serious and even life-threatening.‍
• Premature atrial contractions (PACs): PACs are extra heartbeats that begin in the atria. They often feel like a skipped beat followed by a stronger-than-normal beat.‍
• Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs): Similar to PACs, PVCs originate in the ventricles and can also create the sensation of a skipped beat or a fluttering.

In addition to arrhythmias, certain structural heart diseases, such as valve problems or heart muscle damage, can also contribute to palpitations.

Features of Arrhythmia-Related Palpitations:

• Regular or irregular: Palpitations can be either a consistently fast or slow rhythm or a completely irregular pattern.
• Persistent or intermittent: Some arrhythmias are constant, while others come and go.
• Severity: Some arrhythmias are benign and require no treatment, while others are serious and potentially life-threatening.

Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG), a Holter monitor (a portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours), or other cardiac tests.

Pros of Early Detection and Treatment:

• Many arrhythmias are effectively managed with medications or procedures.
• Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications, such as stroke.

Cons and Potential Risks:

• Some arrhythmias, particularly AFib, significantly increase the risk of stroke.
• Diagnosing intermittent arrhythmias can be challenging.
• Treatment may require long-term medication or invasive procedures like ablation or pacemaker implantation.

Examples:

• Atrial fibrillation causing a sensation of an irregular, quivering heartbeat.
• PVCs feeling like a skipped beat followed by a more forceful beat.
• Supraventricular tachycardia causing sudden episodes of a racing heart.

Actionable Tips:

• Seek medical attention if your palpitations are frequent, persistent, or concerning.
• If prescribed medication, adhere strictly to the prescribed schedule and dosage.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist.
• Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet if you have a serious arrhythmia.

Arrhythmias deserve a prominent place on the list of causes of heart palpitations because they are a frequent and significant contributor to this common symptom. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial for preventing serious complications. The work of experts like Dr. Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and digital medicine researcher, and educational campaigns by organizations like the American Heart Association have greatly increased public awareness of arrhythmias and their impact on heart health. If you suspect your palpitations may be due to an arrhythmia, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.

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4. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations are a significant contributor to heart palpitations, making them a crucial consideration when exploring what causes heart palpitations. This is particularly true for women, as they experience substantial hormonal shifts throughout their lives. These changes can disrupt the heart's normal rhythm, leading to the sensation of skipped beats, fluttering, or a racing heart. Understanding the link between hormones and palpitations can empower individuals to manage their symptoms and seek appropriate medical care.

How Hormonal Changes Trigger Palpitations:

Hormones act as chemical messengers, influencing various bodily functions, including heart rate and rhythm. Estrogen and progesterone, the primary female sex hormones, can directly affect the heart's electrical system. Similarly, thyroid hormones play a vital role in regulating metabolism, which indirectly impacts heart function. Imbalances in these hormones can make the heart more susceptible to irregular beats.

Specific Hormonal Influences:

• Menstrual Cycle: Palpitations often follow a cyclical pattern, increasing during the luteal phase (after ovulation) due to shifting progesterone and estrogen levels. For some women, these palpitations are a regular part of their menstrual cycle.
• Pregnancy: The dramatic hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly the surge in progesterone and increased blood volume, can trigger palpitations. This is more common in the first and third trimesters. While usually temporary and harmless, pregnant women should always report palpitations to their doctor.
• Perimenopause and Menopause: The fluctuating and declining estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause can significantly increase the frequency and intensity of palpitations. These are often accompanied by other menopausal symptoms like hot flashes.
• Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can disrupt heart rhythm. Hyperthyroidism can lead to a rapid heart rate and palpitations, while hypothyroidism can cause a slower than normal heart rate and still trigger the feeling of palpitations.

Features of Hormone-Related Palpitations:

• Often cyclical in nature for menstrual-related palpitations.
• May coincide with hot flashes during menopause.
• Thyroid-related palpitations may be accompanied by other symptoms like weight changes, temperature sensitivity, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits.
• Pregnancy-related palpitations are typically more common in the first and third trimesters.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Usually temporary during pregnancy.
• Can be managed with appropriate hormone therapy if related to menopause.
• Thyroid-related palpitations often resolve with proper treatment of the underlying condition.

Cons:

• May be distressing during pregnancy.
• Can be chronic during perimenopause and menopause.
• Thyroid disorders require ongoing management.

Examples:

• Increased palpitations during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
• Heart flutters accompanied by hot flashes during menopause.
• Racing heart as a symptom of undiagnosed hyperthyroidism.

Actionable Tips:

• Track your palpitations: Note when they occur, their duration, and any associated symptoms. This can help determine if they are related to your menstrual cycle or other hormonal changes.
• Request thyroid function tests: If you experience palpitations along with other symptoms like weight changes, temperature sensitivity, or fatigue, consult your doctor and ask for thyroid function tests.
• Discuss hormone replacement therapy: If your palpitations are related to menopause, discuss hormone replacement therapy options with your doctor.
• Stay well-hydrated: Dehydration can worsen palpitations, so ensure adequate fluid intake, especially during pregnancy.
• Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate palpitations. Practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.

Hormonal changes are a common cause of heart palpitations. By understanding how hormonal fluctuations affect the heart and by tracking your symptoms, you can work with your healthcare provider to find effective management strategies. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice if you experience frequent or concerning palpitations.

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5. Medications and Substances

Heart palpitations, those unsettling moments of fluttering, pounding, or racing heartbeats, can be triggered by a surprising culprit: the very medications and substances we use to treat other ailments. Understanding this connection is crucial for anyone experiencing palpitations, especially those using wearable ECG devices like Apple Watch, Fitbit, or Kardia, as well as individuals with diagnosed heart conditions. This is a significant contributor to "what causes heart palpitations" and warrants careful consideration.

Numerous medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, list heart palpitations as a potential side effect. These can range from common cold remedies to vital prescription drugs. The mechanism varies depending on the substance. Some medications directly stimulate the heart, leading to an increased heart rate. Others can disrupt the delicate electrical signals that regulate the heart's rhythm, causing irregular beats or palpitations. Even some herbal supplements, often perceived as “natural” and therefore harmless, can interfere with heart function and trigger palpitations. This unpredictable nature is compounded by the fact that herbal supplements are less stringently regulated than pharmaceutical drugs.

Several features characterize medication-induced palpitations:

• Onset often correlates with starting a new medication or changing dosage: If you begin experiencing palpitations shortly after starting a new medication or altering the dose of an existing one, there's a strong possibility of a connection.
• Can occur with both prescription and over-the-counter drugs: Don't assume that only prescription medications are potent enough to cause palpitations. Common over-the-counter drugs like decongestants can also be triggers.
• May be dose-dependent: Higher doses of a medication are more likely to cause palpitations than lower doses.
• Sometimes results from drug interactions: The combination of two or more medications can sometimes interact in unexpected ways, leading to palpitations even if neither medication individually causes this side effect.

Examples:

• Albuterol inhalers (used for asthma): Can cause a temporary increase in heart rate.
• Pseudoephedrine (found in decongestants): Can trigger palpitations in some individuals.
• ADHD medications like Adderall: Known to increase heart rate.
• Some antibiotics like fluoroquinolones: Can cause arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), including palpitations, in certain patients.

Pros of identifying medication-induced palpitations:

• Often resolves when medication is discontinued or dosage adjusted: In many cases, the palpitations will cease once the offending medication is stopped or the dosage is lowered.
• Usually predictable based on known side effect profiles: Most medications have well-documented side effects, making it easier to identify potential triggers.

Cons:

• May require balancing treatment of one condition against palpitation side effects: Discontinuing a necessary medication may not be feasible, requiring a careful balancing act between managing the primary condition and minimizing palpitations.
• Some medications cannot be safely discontinued abruptly: Certain medications require gradual tapering under medical supervision. Never stop a prescription medication without consulting your doctor.
• Herbal supplements are less regulated and may have unpredictable effects: This makes identifying the cause and managing palpitations more challenging.

Tips for Managing Medication-Related Palpitations:

• Report all palpitations to your healthcare providers when taking new medications: This allows them to assess the situation and determine if a medication adjustment is necessary.
• Never stop prescription medications without medical guidance: Abruptly discontinuing certain medications can be dangerous.
• Read medication information sheets for potential side effects: Be aware of the potential side effects of any medication you are taking.
• Inform all healthcare providers about all medications and supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal remedies: This helps prevent potential drug interactions and ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment.

By understanding the link between medications and substances and heart palpitations, you can take proactive steps to manage this often uncomfortable and concerning symptom. Being informed and communicating effectively with your healthcare providers are key to finding a solution that balances effective treatment with minimizing unwanted side effects.

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6. Electrolyte Imbalances: A Hidden Cause of Heart Palpitations

Electrolyte imbalances are a significant contributor to heart palpitations and deserve a place on this list due to their often overlooked role in heart health. Understanding their impact can be crucial for anyone experiencing irregular heart rhythms, especially users of wearable ECG devices like Apple Watch, Fitbit, or Kardia, who might notice unusual readings.

Electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium, are essential minerals that regulate a variety of bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function, hydration, blood pressure, and critically, heart rhythm. These minerals carry electrical charges that facilitate the transmission of signals within the heart. When these electrolytes are out of balance, these electrical signals can be disrupted, leading to irregular heartbeats – otherwise known as heart palpitations. This disruption can manifest as a fluttering sensation, a skipped beat, or a racing heart. This is why electrolyte imbalances are a frequent answer to the question, "what causes heart palpitations?"

How Electrolyte Imbalances Cause Palpitations:

The heart relies on a precise balance of electrolytes to maintain its regular rhythm. For example, potassium and sodium work together to generate the electrical impulses that trigger heart contractions. Calcium influences the force of these contractions, while magnesium helps regulate both potassium and calcium levels. An excess or deficiency of any of these electrolytes can interfere with this delicate interplay, leading to palpitations.

Features and Symptoms:

Electrolyte imbalance-induced palpitations can develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying cause. They are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Dizziness
• Confusion

Examples of Electrolyte Imbalances and Palpitations:

• Hypokalemia (low potassium): Excessive use of diuretics, often prescribed for high blood pressure, can deplete potassium levels, triggering palpitations.
• Dehydration: Loss of fluids through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea can lead to widespread electrolyte imbalances and subsequent heart rhythm disturbances. This is particularly relevant for athletes or individuals working in hot environments.
• Magnesium deficiency: Low magnesium can contribute to premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or even atrial fibrillation, both of which can cause noticeable palpitations.

Pros and Cons of Diagnosis and Treatment:

Pros:

• Often easily correctable: Many electrolyte imbalances can be effectively managed through dietary changes, such as increasing intake of potassium-rich foods (bananas, spinach) or through mineral supplementation.
• Clear diagnosis: A simple blood test can accurately pinpoint specific electrolyte deficiencies or excesses.

Cons:

• Severe imbalances can be life-threatening: Extreme cases of electrolyte imbalance can cause serious heart rhythm problems requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Underlying health issues: Sometimes, persistent electrolyte imbalances can indicate more serious underlying health conditions, such as kidney disease or hormonal disorders.
• Medication interactions: Certain medications can complicate electrolyte management, making careful monitoring essential.

Actionable Tips for Preventing and Managing Electrolyte Imbalance-Related Palpitations:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during exercise or in hot weather. Consider electrolyte replacement drinks for prolonged physical activity. This is crucial for preventing dehydration-induced electrolyte imbalances, a common cause of palpitations.
• Balanced diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to ensure adequate intake of essential minerals.
• Medication awareness: Be aware of any medications you are taking that might affect electrolyte levels, such as diuretics or laxatives. Discuss potential side effects and monitoring strategies with your doctor.
• Consult a healthcare professional: If you experience frequent or concerning palpitations, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can conduct necessary tests and recommend appropriate treatment strategies. For individuals using at-home ECG devices, sharing these readings with a doctor can provide valuable insights into the nature and potential causes of your palpitations.

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7. Physical Exertion and Exercise

Physical exertion and exercise are common culprits behind heart palpitations. Understanding how your heart responds to physical activity is crucial when trying to pinpoint what causes heart palpitations. This is because exercise naturally increases your heart rate, often leading to noticeable palpitations, especially during intense workouts or if you're deconditioned. While experiencing a faster heartbeat during exercise is generally normal, understanding the difference between a typical response and a potential problem is essential.

Your heart works harder during physical activity to supply your muscles with the oxygen they need. This increased demand leads to a faster heart rate and stronger contractions, which you might perceive as palpitations. A general rule of thumb for maximum heart rate during exercise is 220 minus your age. For example, a 40-year-old would have a maximum predicted heart rate of 180 beats per minute.

Features of Exercise-Induced Palpitations:

• Normal Heart Rate Increase: Your heart rate rises proportionally to the intensity of your exercise, usually staying within the expected range (up to 220 minus your age).
• Return to Normal: Your heart rate typically returns to its resting state shortly after you finish exercising.
• Deconditioning: If you're less physically fit, you might experience more noticeable palpitations even during moderate exercise.
• Arrhythmia Trigger: In some susceptible individuals, intense exercise can trigger abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

Pros of Recognizing Exercise as a Cause:

• Normal Physiological Response: In most cases, palpitations during or immediately after exercise are a normal physiological response and nothing to worry about.
• Cardiovascular Health Improvement: Regular exercise strengthens your heart and improves overall cardiovascular health, which can actually reduce palpitations in the long term.
• Identifying Underlying Conditions: Monitoring your heart's response to exercise can help identify potential underlying heart conditions that require medical attention.

Cons of Exercise-Induced Palpitations:

• Distinguishing Normal from Abnormal: It can be challenging to differentiate between normal exercise-induced palpitations and those indicative of a problem.
• Anxiety: Palpitations during exercise can be anxiety-provoking, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart concerns.
• Exercise Limitation: Concerning symptoms might lead some individuals to avoid exercise altogether, hindering their overall health.

Examples of Exercise-Induced Palpitations:

• A racing heart during high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
• Palpitations when climbing several flights of stairs.
• Strong, noticeable heartbeats immediately after sprinting.

Tips for Managing Exercise-Induced Palpitations:

• Gradual Warm-up: Always warm up gradually before engaging in intense exercise. This prepares your heart for the increased workload.
• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after your workouts. Dehydration can contribute to palpitations.
• Heart Rate Monitoring: Consider using a heart rate monitor during exercise to track your heart rate and ensure it stays within a healthy range. Devices like the Apple Watch, Fitbit, or KardiaMobile can be helpful tools for this.
• Medical Clearance: If you have any heart concerns or a history of heart conditions, seek medical clearance from your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

This understanding of exercise-induced palpitations deserves a place on this list because it addresses a common experience for many individuals. Recognizing the normal physiological responses to exercise can help alleviate anxiety and encourage continued physical activity, promoting overall health and well-being. If you consistently experience severe palpitations, palpitations accompanied by other symptoms (chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath), or palpitations that persist long after exercise, it's important to consult with a medical professional to rule out any underlying heart conditions. This is especially important for users of wearable ECG devices like the Apple Watch, Fitbit, or Kardia, as they can provide valuable data to your healthcare provider. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice if you're concerned about your heart health.

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8. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Heart palpitations, that uncomfortable sensation of a racing, fluttering, or pounding heart, can stem from a variety of causes. One often overlooked culprit is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. This deserves a place on the list of "what causes heart palpitations" because it's a relatively common trigger, especially for individuals with diabetes, and understanding this connection can be crucial for effective management.

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels drop below the normal range, typically below 70 mg/dL. This drop triggers the body's natural defense mechanism: the release of adrenaline and other hormones designed to raise blood glucose. This hormonal surge, while necessary, has the side effect of increasing heart rate and can lead to the feeling of heart palpitations. This makes it a significant factor to consider when exploring what causes heart palpitations.

How it Works:

When blood sugar levels fall, the body perceives this as a threat. Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is released into the bloodstream. This hormone stimulates the heart to beat faster and stronger in an attempt to distribute glucose stored in the liver to the rest of the body. This increased heart rate and force of contraction are what can be perceived as palpitations.

Features of Hypoglycemia-Induced Palpitations:

• Accompanying Symptoms: Hypoglycemia rarely presents with palpitations alone. Look for other telltale signs like shakiness, sweating, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and hunger.
• Rapid Onset: Low blood sugar and its associated symptoms, including palpitations, can develop quickly.
• Quick Resolution: Consuming fast-acting carbohydrates typically resolves symptoms within minutes.

Pros of Recognizing Hypoglycemia as a Cause:

• Rapid Treatment: Once identified, hypoglycemia is usually easily treated.
• Early Warning Sign: Palpitations can serve as an important warning sign of dangerously low blood sugar.
• Preventable: With careful management of diet, exercise, and medication, hypoglycemia can often be prevented.

Cons of Hypoglycemia-Induced Palpitations:

• Impaired Judgment: Severe hypoglycemia can cause confusion, which may prevent a person from recognizing the need for treatment or seeking help.
• Potential Danger: Untreated, severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, and even coma.
• Nocturnal Episodes: Hypoglycemia can occur during sleep, potentially going unnoticed and untreated.

Examples of Hypoglycemia-Induced Palpitations:

• Waking up with a racing heart and feeling shaky before breakfast after a long overnight fast.
• Experiencing heart palpitations and trembling after skipping a meal.
• Nocturnal palpitations that awaken a person with diabetes.

Actionable Tips for Managing and Preventing Hypoglycemia-Induced Palpitations:

• The 15-15 Rule: If you suspect low blood sugar, consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice, hard candy). Wait 15 minutes and recheck your blood sugar. If it's still low, repeat the process.
• Regular Meals and Snacks: Maintaining regular meal times and incorporating healthy snacks, especially if you're prone to hypoglycemia, can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Carry Fast-Acting Carbohydrates: Keep glucose tablets or other fast-acting carbohydrates readily available in case of a sudden drop in blood sugar.
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): If you have diabetes and experience frequent hypoglycemia, consider discussing CGM with your doctor. This technology can provide real-time glucose readings and alerts, helping you prevent severe episodes.

By understanding the link between low blood sugar and heart palpitations, you can better identify the cause of your symptoms and take appropriate action. If you frequently experience palpitations, especially in conjunction with other symptoms of hypoglycemia, consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.

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Monitoring Heart Palpitations with Technology

Understanding the causes of heart palpitations is essential for managing your heart health. Common triggers include stress, caffeine, and exercise, as well as more serious concerns like arrhythmias and hormonal changes. While occasional flutters can be normal, frequent or severe palpitations, especially when accompanied by symptoms like chest pain or dizziness, may require attention.

Monitoring your heart rhythms is now more accessible with devices such as Apple Watch, Fitbit, and other similar gadgets. These tools, along with the Qaly app, allow you to track and review your ECGs conveniently. Qaly offers a service where our experts review your heart rhythms and provide insights into your palpitations, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.

If interpreting your ECGs feels daunting, Qaly is here to help. We understand how confusing irregular heartbeats can be. That's why we developed the Qaly app for Android and iPhone, serving millions around the world who experience heart palpitations and abnormal rhythms. With Qaly, human experts will interpret your ECGs within minutes, providing clarity and peace of mind.

To get started, download the Qaly app from the App Store or Play Store today. For any questions or additional support, contact us at support@qaly.co.

From the Qaly team, stay heart healthy ❤️