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Palpitations Specialist

SWICFT Cardiology

Cardiology located in Naples, FL, Bonita Springs, FL, & Marco Island, FL

If you notice unusual heartbeats, such as rapid pounding or skipping beats, you might have heart palpitations (irregular heart rhythms). If so, see the experts at SWICFT Cardiology, serving Southwest Florida with locations in Naples, Bonita Springs, and Marco Island, Florida, for an evaluation. Board-certified cardiologist James Talano, MD, MM, FACC, and his skilled staff can find out what’s causing the palpitations and reduce your risk of complications. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.

Palpitations Q & A

What are heart palpitations?

Heart palpitations are irregular heart rhythms triggered by lifestyle habits, medications, or sometimes medical conditions. While usually harmless, in some cases, palpitations are the sign of a serious heart problem requiring treatment. 

What are the symptoms of heart palpitations?

If you have heart palpitations, you may notice the following symptoms:

  • Fluttering heartbeats
  • Skipping heartbeats
  • Chest pounding
  • Heartbeat flip-flopping
  • Heart beat that’s too fast

You might feel heart palpitations in your neck, throat, or within your chest. The palpitations could appear during exercise or even at rest. If heart palpitations result because of a heart condition, possible complications include a heart attack, fainting, heart failure, or a stroke.

What are the risk factors for heart palpitations?

While anyone can experience heart palpitations, risk factors for having them include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety 
  • Panic attacks
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Ongoing stress
  • Caffeine
  • Nicotine
  • Drug use
  • Some medications
  • Thyroid problems
  • Other hormone changes
  • Heart rhythm problems 
  • Fever
  • Pregnancy
  • Heat defects
  • Previous heart attacks
  • Past heart surgery

See the specialists at SWICFT Cardiology at the first sign of a problem to detect or rule out serious heart complications.

How does my doctor diagnose heart palpitations?

To diagnose heart palpitations or their underlying cause, the experts at SWICFT Cardiology discuss your medical history and symptoms with you. They check your blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs, and complete a physical exam.

Your provider could recommend blood tests, an echocardiogram, Holter monitoring, an electrocardiogram (EKG), or other heart-function tests.

How are heart palpitations treated?

You likely won’t need treatment for heart palpitations unless your doctor finds an underlying problem. They may recommend you avoid triggers, such as caffeine, nicotine, drugs, ongoing stress, or certain medications. 


Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Eat nutritious foods, get plenty of sleep, and participate in regular exercise most days of the week. Maintain a healthy body weight and properly manage a chronic disease if you have one. 


If you have a heart or blood vessel problem associated with palpitations, your SWICFT Cardiology specialist might recommend medications, dietary supplements, or a medical procedure.


To find out if your heart palpitations are cause for concern, call the SWICFT Cardiology office or schedule an appointment online today.