Menopause heart pounding: what to know

Hormone changes can affect the body's temperature control and nervous-system responses, sometimes making your heartbeat more noticeable. Hot flushes, night sweats, stress, poor sleep, caffeine, dehydration, anaemia, thyroid problems, medicines, and heart rhythm conditions can also cause palpitations. The sensation alone cannot identify the cause.

Record when episodes begin, how long they last, what you were doing, and whether your pulse feels fast or uneven. Note triggers such as heat, alcohol, caffeine, illness, or emotional stress. Rest somewhere cool, breathe slowly, drink water if you can, and review medicines or supplements with a clinician rather than stopping prescribed treatment yourself.

Get emergency help for heart pounding with chest pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, or sudden weakness. Arrange prompt medical assessment for a first episode, repeated episodes, a persistently rapid or irregular heartbeat, or symptoms that occur with exertion. A clinician may check your heart rhythm and look for non-menopause causes.

Ask whether your symptoms fit palpitations, whether an ECG or blood tests are appropriate, and how your menopause treatment or other medicines could affect them. Bring your episode log and a list of caffeine, supplements, and prescribed medicines.