Palpitations are the sensation of your own heartbeat, often described as a fluttering, pounding or skipping feeling in the chest. They can be alarming, but they do not always indicate a serious heart problem.
Palpitations can be triggered by everyday factors such as stress, caffeine, lack of sleep or physical exertion. In other cases, they may be related to an underlying heart rhythm concern that is worth having evaluated.
It is advisable to see a cardiologist if palpitations are frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by breathlessness, dizziness, chest pain or fainting. An ECG is usually the first step in evaluating palpitations, and depending on the findings, further monitoring or tests may be advised.
Keeping a simple note of when palpitations occur, how long they last, and any accompanying symptoms can be genuinely useful information for your cardiologist during the consultation.
This article is for general education and does not replace professional medical advice. Read our medical disclaimer. Related: ECG Test in Chh. Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad).