Alcohol and heart palpitations

Palpitations feel like pounding, racing, fluttering or skipped beats. Alcohol is one possible trigger, but recurring episodes still need assessment because dehydration, anaemia, thyroid problems, low blood sugar, anxiety and heart rhythm conditions can produce similar sensations.

Alcohol can change electrical signalling in the heart and increase stress hormones. It may also disturb sleep and promote fluid loss, making the heartbeat more noticeable. Symptoms can occur while drinking, later that night or the following day.

Atrial fibrillation can present with an irregular, sometimes rapid heartbeat, breathlessness, dizziness or fatigue. Palpitations alone do not identify their cause, so a clinician may need to check your pulse, medicines, health history and an electrical recording of the heart.

Stop drinking alcohol, sit somewhere safe and note when the episode started, how the heartbeat feels and any accompanying symptoms. Avoid further alcohol and other stimulants. Drink water gradually if you can and have not been told to restrict fluids.

Book a medical assessment if episodes repeat, last longer than usual or interfere with daily life. Record possible triggers and bring a list of medicines and supplements. If you drink heavily or experience shaking, sweating or marked anxiety when alcohol wears off, obtain medical support rather than trying to stop abruptly on your own.

Call emergency services if palpitations occur with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, sudden weakness, new confusion or collapse. Seek prompt medical advice for a sustained rapid or irregular heartbeat, repeated dizziness, or symptoms that begin after heavy alcohol use. Do not drive if you feel faint or have consumed alcohol.

You might ask whether you need a heart rhythm recording or blood tests, whether a medicine or another condition could be contributing, what to do if the episode returns, and whether avoiding alcohol is advisable for you.