When to worry about palpitations with hyperthyroidism

Palpitations is a very common presentation of Hyperthyroidism. Excess thyroid hormone can make the heart respond more strongly to normal body signals, producing a rapid, forceful or irregular sensation. Heat intolerance, sweating, trembling, restlessness, weight loss or frequent bowel movements may occur too.

Palpitations may continue while thyroid levels are high, but the sensation can also reflect a separate rhythm problem, anaemia, infection, stimulant use or another medicine. Testing helps identify the cause and guide treatment.

Pause strenuous activity, sit safely and note when the episode starts, how it feels and whether your pulse is regular. Take thyroid treatment exactly as prescribed and do not alter it based on one reading or symptom. Limit caffeine, nicotine and non-prescribed stimulants, and contact your clinician if episodes are becoming more frequent or lasting longer.

Call emergency services for chest pain, fainting, severe trouble breathing, new confusion, extreme weakness or a very unwell state with a racing heartbeat. Seek same-day advice for persistent palpitations, marked dizziness, fever, vomiting or a clear worsening of tremor, sweating or breathlessness. These symptoms should not be attributed to the thyroid without assessment.

Ask when your thyroid blood tests should be repeated, whether your current dose is appropriate, and whether a heart tracing is needed. Discuss which medicines, supplements and decongestants may intensify palpitations and what action plan to follow during an episode.