Creatine and heart palpitations: what to know

Palpitations can feel like pounding, fluttering, skipped beats or a sudden fast pulse. They may occur after strenuous training, poor sleep, emotional stress, caffeine or pre-workout products. Creatine can change how water is distributed in muscle, so taking it while drinking too little, exercising in heat or becoming unwell may make you feel unwell. The symptom itself does not identify its cause. Anaemia, an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar, anxiety, dehydration and an abnormal rhythm such as atrial fibrillation can also produce a racing or irregular heartbeat.

Pause the supplement and intense training until the pattern is clearer, especially if symptoms began soon after starting or changing products. Record when episodes happen, how long they last, your pulse if you can measure it, exercise, caffeine, medicines and fluid intake. Avoid stacking creatine with stimulant-heavy workout products. Arrange a clinical assessment if episodes recur; a clinician may review your history, examine you and check an electrocardiogram or blood tests.

Call emergency services for palpitations with chest pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion or marked weakness. Seek prompt medical advice for a persistent very fast or irregular heartbeat, symptoms during exercise, or a known heart condition. Heart failure can cause breathlessness and swelling, but palpitations alone do not establish that diagnosis.

Could my supplement ingredients, caffeine, medicines, thyroid, blood count or heart rhythm explain this pattern? Should I stop creatine, change my training, or have an electrocardiogram? What pulse symptoms should trigger urgent help?