What should you know about constant palpitations all day?

Palpitations describe an awareness of your heartbeat rather than a diagnosis. You may notice a fast, forceful, irregular or fluttering beat in your chest, neck or throat.

A long episode can follow triggers such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, emotional strain, poor sleep, fever, dehydration or some medicines. Palpitations can also occur when the body is responding to low blood sugar, anaemia or an overactive thyroid.

Some people have a heart rhythm problem, such as atrial fibrillation, which can produce an irregular pulse. Heart failure can also be associated with awareness of the heartbeat, particularly when there is breathlessness, swelling or reduced ability to exercise. Feeling palpitations does not by itself identify the cause.

Stop strenuous activity and sit somewhere safe. Note when the sensation began, whether the rhythm feels regular or uneven, how long it lasts, and any associated symptoms. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and non-prescribed stimulant products until you have been assessed.

Drink fluids if you can do so safely and have not been told to restrict them. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice. A clinician may check your pulse and blood pressure, review medicines and triggers, and arrange an electrocardiogram or blood tests to look for an underlying cause.

Seek emergency help now if palpitations come with chest pain or pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion, or marked dizziness. Also seek urgent help if the heartbeat remains very fast or irregular and you feel unwell. Do not drive yourself if you may faint or cannot safely travel.

If none of these warning signs is present but the sensation has continued all day, arrange prompt medical advice rather than waiting for repeated episodes. Mention pregnancy, known heart disease, thyroid problems, anaemia, diabetes, recent illness and any new medicine or supplement.

Ask: Could my symptoms be related to a heart rhythm, thyroid problem, anaemia, dehydration or low blood sugar? What checks do I need, and should I record my pulse during an episode? Which symptoms should prompt emergency help?

Bring a list of prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products, supplements and recent stimulants. If you can, record the timing, activity, body position and sensations that occur with each episode.