Palpitations Specialist

SWICFT Cardiology

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

Palpitations are the sensation of a racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipped heartbeat. They may occur with a normal rhythm or an abnormal heart rhythm. SWICFT Cardiology serves Southwest Florida with evaluation to identify the cause and determine whether treatment is needed. Call the office for an appointment for new or recurring symptoms.

239-261-2000

Palpitations Q & A

What are heart palpitations?

Palpitations describe how your heartbeat feels. You may notice pounding, fluttering, racing, or a pause followed by a stronger beat. Palpitations are a symptom, not a diagnosis, and do not always mean you have an arrhythmia or heart disease.

When should I seek medical attention?

Call 911 if palpitations occur with chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or fainting. Do not drive yourself or wait for an office appointment.

Contact your care team for new, recurrent, prolonged, or worsening palpitations, especially if you have known heart disease or feel lightheaded. Your clinician can help decide how urgently you need assessment.

What causes palpitations?

Possible causes include:

Stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, or strenuous activity
Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or other stimulants
Prescription medicines, decongestants, or supplements
Fever, dehydration, anemia, thyroid disease, or electrolyte changes
Extra heartbeats or an abnormal rhythm, such as atrial fibrillation
Structural heart conditions, including valve disease or congenital heart defects

Triggers differ from person to person. Do not assume symptoms are caused by anxiety or caffeine without appropriate evaluation.

How are palpitations evaluated?

Your SWICFT Cardiology provider asks when symptoms occur, how long they last, and whether they are associated with activity or other symptoms. Bring an up-to-date list of medicines and supplements.

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records your heart rhythm. If symptoms come and go, a medical heart monitor can help match symptoms with a rhythm recording. The type and length of monitoring depend on how often episodes occur. Blood tests, an echocardiogram, or other tests may be appropriate based on your history and examination.

A symptom diary or smartwatch recording may provide useful information, but a consumer device does not replace medical assessment.

How are palpitations treated?

Treatment depends on the cause. Some people need reassurance and adjustments to sleep, hydration, or personal triggers. Others need treatment for an underlying condition or an abnormal heart rhythm.

Your clinician may recommend medication or referral for a rhythm procedure when appropriate. Do not stop prescribed medicines or start supplements to treat palpitations without discussing them with your care team.

For nonemergency questions or an appointment, call SWICFT Cardiology at 239-261-2000.