What should you know about prolonged heart palpitations?

Palpitations are an awareness of your heartbeat: it may feel fast, fluttering, pounding, or uneven. Triggers can include stress, lack of sleep, fever, caffeine, alcohol, some medicines, dehydration, or low blood sugar. An overactive thyroid or anaemia can also make the heart beat faster as the body tries to meet its needs. A rhythm problem such as atrial fibrillation is another possible explanation; the sensation alone cannot identify the cause. Heart failure may cause palpitations alongside breathlessness, swelling, or reduced exercise tolerance. These links describe conditions that can present with palpitations, not a diagnosis made from the symptom.

Stop strenuous activity and sit somewhere safe. Note when the episode began, whether the rhythm feels regular or irregular, possible triggers, and any chest discomfort, breathlessness, dizziness, or faintness. Avoid extra caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and non-prescribed stimulants until you have been assessed. Drink fluids if you may be dehydrated and can safely do so. Arrange a clinical review if episodes last longer than expected, keep returning, or are changing. A clinician may check your pulse, blood pressure, medicines, and an electrocardiogram, with further tests guided by your symptoms.

Seek emergency help now if palpitations are accompanied by chest pain or pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, marked dizziness, confusion, or new weakness. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or unwell. Urgent assessment is also appropriate when a rapid or irregular heartbeat continues and does not settle with rest, particularly if you have known heart disease or symptoms of heart failure. Even without red flags, prolonged or repeated episodes deserve timely medical advice because the rhythm may need to be captured while it is happening.

Ask what rhythm or trigger could explain the episodes, whether you need an electrocardiogram or a wearable monitor, and which medicines or supplements might contribute. Ask which symptoms should prompt emergency care and whether you should change caffeine, exercise, or other habits while waiting for results.