Does hyperthyroidism cause palpitations?

You may notice a racing, pounding, fluttering, or irregular sensation in your chest. Hyperthyroidism can increase the body’s sensitivity to adrenaline, so the heartbeat may be more noticeable during activity, stress, or rest. Other features can include heat intolerance, sweating, shakiness, trouble sleeping, frequent bowel movements, or weight loss despite eating normally. Palpitations have many possible causes, so this symptom alone cannot identify the reason.

Arrange a medical assessment if palpitations are new, recurring, or accompanied by other thyroid symptoms. A clinician may review medicines and supplements, examine your pulse and neck, and request thyroid blood tests. Keep a brief record of when episodes start, how long they last, what you were doing, and whether caffeine, nicotine, illness, or stress was present. Do not change prescribed thyroid or heart medicine without medical advice.

Seek emergency help for palpitations with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, or marked weakness. Get prompt medical advice if the heartbeat remains very fast or irregular, or if symptoms occur with fever, vomiting, or worsening agitation. These features need assessment even when hyperthyroidism is already known.

Could thyroid hormone be contributing to my palpitations? Which tests will check thyroid function? Should I limit caffeine or other stimulants while this is assessed? What symptoms should prompt emergency care?