Herpes and heart palpitations: what to know

Palpitations are an awareness of your heartbeat: it may feel pounding, fluttering, racing or as though it has skipped. During a herpes outbreak, pain, poor sleep, fever and emotional strain can increase adrenaline and make normal beats more noticeable. Fluid loss from sweating, vomiting or difficulty drinking can also contribute to a rapid pulse.

The timing may be coincidental. Palpitations can also occur with anaemia, an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar or an abnormal rhythm such as atrial fibrillation. A clinician may ask about the episode, check your pulse and blood pressure, and arrange an electrocardiogram or blood tests when appropriate.

Sit down, breathe slowly and note when the sensation began, how long it lasted, whether it was regular, and what you were doing. Drink fluids if you can do so safely, especially if you have had fever or reduced intake. Avoid excess caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and non-prescribed stimulants while symptoms are active.

Check the instructions for any cold, pain or antiviral medicine you are taking, and do not exceed the recommended dose. Arrange a medical review if episodes keep returning, last longer than expected, occur at rest, or began after a new medicine.

Seek emergency help for palpitations with chest pain or pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion, marked weakness, or a heartbeat that remains very fast or clearly irregular. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or seriously unwell.

Get prompt medical advice if you cannot keep fluids down, have signs of significant dehydration such as very little urine or worsening dizziness, or have a serious underlying heart condition. Herpes involving the eye, severe widespread symptoms or a weakened immune system also warrants timely clinical advice.

Ask whether the rhythm should be checked with an electrocardiogram, whether dehydration or fever could be contributing, and whether any medicine or supplement may be affecting your heartbeat. Tell the clinician about fainting, chest discomfort, breathlessness, thyroid symptoms, heavy bleeding, diabetes, and any personal or family history of rhythm problems.