Palpitations

Palpitations are feelings that your heart is beating irregularly, too fast, too slow, or with extra force. They can feel like fluttering, pounding, thumping, or skipped beats in your chest, throat, or neck.

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Palpitations are common and often harmless, but sometimes they can be a sign of an underlying heart problem, especially if they occur often or with other symptoms.

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What are the symptoms of Palpitations?

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Palpitations can feel different from person to person. You might notice:

• Fluttering in your chest

• A fast heartbeat (tachycardia)

• A slow heartbeat (bradycardia)

• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

• Skipped or extra beats

• Pounding or thumping in the chest, throat, or neck

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They can happen at rest, during exercise, or when you’re feeling stressed or anxious.

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What increases my risk of Palpitations?

You may be more likely to experience palpitations if you:

• Have heart disease or a history of heart problems

• Take medicines that affect heart rhythm

• Have a thyroid disorder

• Drink high amounts of caffeine or alcohol

• Smoke

• Experience frequent stress or anxiety

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How is Palpitations diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any triggers. They may listen to your heart and order tests such as:

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• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – to check your heart rhythm

• Holter monitor – a portable ECG worn for 24–48 hours to record heart activity

• Event monitor – worn for longer periods to capture occasional palpitations

• Echocardiogram – to assess heart structure and function

• Blood tests – to check for thyroid problems, anaemia, or electrolyte imbalance

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What is the treatment for Palpitations?

Treatment depends on the cause. If they’re harmless, you may not need any treatment — just reassurance and lifestyle changes.

Options may include:

• Lifestyle changes: reducing caffeine, alcohol, and stress

• Treating underlying conditions such as thyroid disease or anaemia

• Medication to control heart rate or rhythm, if needed

• Procedures such as catheter ablation for certain arrhythmias

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If palpitations are linked to a serious heart rhythm problem, your doctor will recommend treatment to reduce the risk of complications.

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More information:

For further support, see the NHS Palpitations page or the British Heart Foundation.