What should you know about getting heart palpitations?

You may notice racing, pounding, fluttering, skipped or extra beats in the chest, neck or throat. Stress and Generalised Anxiety Disorder can heighten awareness of normal changes. Dehydration, fever, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and some medicines can also trigger symptoms. Anaemia, Iron Deficiency Anaemia, Hyperthyroidism, Hypoglycaemia and an irregular rhythm such as Atrial Fibrillation are other possible explanations. Palpitations do not by themselves show which cause is present; an assessment may include a pulse check and heart tracing.

Stop strenuous activity, sit or lie safely, and breathe slowly. Note when the episode began, how it felt, what you were doing, and whether you had illness, poor fluid intake or a new medicine. Avoid extra caffeine, nicotine and recreational stimulants until you have advice. Arrange a routine appointment when episodes recur, disturb sleep or come with fatigue, tremor or weight change. Do not change prescribed treatment without medical guidance.

Call emergency services for palpitations with chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, confusion, marked weakness or a sustained very fast or irregular heartbeat. Seek prompt assessment if episodes are new and recurrent, occur with exertion, or are associated with swelling or breathlessness that could indicate Heart Failure.

Ask: Do I need an ECG or a monitor? Could thyroid, blood sugar, blood count, hydration or a medicine be involved? Which symptoms mean I should seek emergency help?