Does hypoglycaemia cause palpitations?

When glucose falls, the body releases hormones that encourage the liver to release stored energy. These hormones can make the heart beat faster or more forcefully. You may notice pounding, fluttering or a thumping sensation, often alongside sweating, shaking, hunger, anxiety, dizziness or weakness.

Palpitations can also result from caffeine, stress, fever, anaemia, thyroid problems, medicines or a heart rhythm disorder. The sensation alone cannot identify hypoglycaemia, particularly if there is no low glucose reading or if it continues after other symptoms improve.

Stop what you are doing and sit somewhere safe. If you are alert and can swallow, check glucose when possible and follow your diabetes treatment plan. Avoid driving or strenuous activity until you have recovered. Note the heartbeat sensation, its duration, your glucose reading, recent food, exercise and medicines.

Do not take extra diabetes medicine unless your clinician has instructed you to do so. If palpitations continue after glucose has been corrected, arrange medical advice rather than assuming the cause.

Call emergency services for palpitations with chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, marked dizziness, confusion or a sustained very fast heartbeat. Seek urgent help if the person becomes unconscious or cannot swallow; do not give food or drink by mouth.

Book a clinical review for repeated episodes, palpitations at rest, a new irregular rhythm, or symptoms after a medicine change. A clinician can check for low glucose and other causes, then review your treatment plan.

Ask how to check glucose during palpitations, which medicines or stimulants may contribute, whether your heart rhythm needs assessment, and how to plan meals and exercise safely. Ask what combination of symptoms should prompt emergency help.