Heart palpitations and indigestion: what should you know?

Palpitations are sensations such as a racing, pounding or fluttering heartbeat. Indigestion may cause upper-abdominal discomfort, fullness, belching or a burning feeling. A large meal, reflux, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, poor sleep or anxiety can make both sensations more noticeable. Indigestion does not by itself identify the cause of palpitations.

Other conditions can present with palpitations, including Anaemia, Dehydration, Hyperthyroidism, Hypoglycaemia and Atrial Fibrillation. Heart Failure can also cause symptoms that need prompt clinical review. These possibilities cannot be separated reliably from symptoms alone.

Pause strenuous activity and sit upright if indigestion is troubling you. Note when the sensations began, how long they last, whether the heartbeat feels regular, what you ate or drank, and any medicines or supplements taken. Avoid your known triggers while you arrange advice. Do not stop prescribed medicine without speaking with a clinician.

Arrange an appointment if episodes recur, last longer than expected, wake you, or are becoming more frequent. A clinician may review your pulse, medicines and symptoms and decide whether an examination or heart tracing is appropriate.

Seek emergency help for palpitations with chest pressure or pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, marked dizziness, confusion, a cold sweat, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back. Seek urgent advice if the heartbeat remains very fast or irregular, or if you feel seriously unwell. Do not drive yourself if you might faint.

Could reflux or another digestive problem be contributing? Do my medicines, supplements, thyroid, blood count or glucose need checking? Should I record my pulse during an episode, and which symptoms mean I should seek emergency help?