“What Are Heart Palpitations? Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor”
Best Cardiologist in Lucknow: Your Ultimate Guide to Heart Care 
Have you ever felt your heart “skip a beat” or suddenly race for a few seconds? That fluttering, pounding, or irregular heartbeat is known as heart palpitations. While they can be harmless in many cases, sometimes they may signal an underlying heart condition that needs medical attention.
As a leading Heart Specialist in Lucknow, Dr. Gautam Swaroop, Director of Cardiac Sciences at Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, frequently treats patients who worry about palpitations. In this blog, let’s understand what palpitations mean, their causes, and when you should seek expert care.
What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations are sensations where you feel your heartbeat more intensely than usual. Patients describe them as:
- Fluttering or “butterflies” in the chest
- Pounding or thumping heartbeat
- A racing or unusually fast heart rate
- A feeling that the heart has “skipped” a beat
Palpitations can last just a few seconds or continue for minutes or even hours.
Causes of Heart Palpitations
Palpitations can result from lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or heart rhythm problems.
| Category | Common Causes & Triggers |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle-related | Stress, anxiety, caffeine/energy drinks, alcohol, smoking/tobacco, dehydration, poor sleep, heavy meals, intense unaccustomed exercise. |
| Medical conditions | Thyroid imbalance (hyperthyroidism), anemia, fever/infections, pregnancy, low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalance, certain medications/decongestants. |
| Heart-related | Arrhythmias (atrial fibrillation, SVT, PVCs), coronary artery disease, valve disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, post-COVID myocarditis. |
📌 Heart palpitations may arise from everyday habits or more serious heart conditions. Identifying the cause is the first step toward effective treatment.
Harmless vs. Serious Palpitations
Not all palpitations mean something is wrong. Some are completely harmless, while others may require urgent attention.
Comparison Table: Harmless vs. Serious Palpitations
| Type | Features | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Harmless | Occasional, short-lived, no other symptoms | Usually due to stress, caffeine, or anxiety |
| Potentially Serious | Frequent, prolonged, associated with chest pain, dizziness, or fainting | Could indicate arrhythmia or structural heart disease |
How Doctors Diagnose Heart Palpitations
At Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, Dr. Gautam Swaroop uses a combination of advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate palpitations:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): Records heart rhythm in real time
- Holter Monitor: A 24–48 hour wearable ECG to catch irregularities
- Echocardiogram: Ultrasound of the heart to check structure and valve function
- Stress Test: Assesses how the heart responds during exercise
- Blood Tests: To rule out thyroid disorders, anaemia, or electrolyte imbalance
Treatment of Heart Palpitations
The treatment depends on the cause:
- Lifestyle-related palpitations: Reduce caffeine, manage stress, improve hydration, and sleep better.
- Medical treatment: If caused by arrhythmias, thyroid issues, or anaemia, doctors treat the underlying condition.
- Medications: Beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic drugs may be prescribed in some cases.
- Procedures: For persistent arrhythmias, procedures like Catheter Ablation or Pacemaker implantation may be recommended.
Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Palpitations
- Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine
- Practice stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
- Get 7–8 hours of quality sleep
- Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Exercise regularly but consult your cardiologist if you experience palpitations during workouts
Can Palpitations Be Prevented?
While not all palpitations are preventable, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle greatly reduces risk. Regular cardiac check-ups are also crucial for early detection of hidden heart conditions.
Expertise You Can Trust | Treatment in Lucknow
👨⚕️ Dr. Gautam Swaroop, Director of Cardiac Sciences at Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, is among the top cardiologists in Lucknow, with expertise in managing heart rhythm problems, valve diseases, and complex cardiac conditions.
Whether your palpitations are harmless or linked to a heart condition, early evaluation can make all the difference. At Tender Palm, patients receive world-class cardiac care with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities.
Conclusion
Heart palpitations are often harmless — but sometimes they are a signal from your heart that needs attention. The key is to recognize the warning signs and consult a cardiologist early.
If you have been experiencing palpitations, don’t ignore them. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gautam Swaroop, one of the best cardiologists in Lucknow, at Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, and take a step towards a healthier, stronger heart.
FAQs About Heart Palpitations:
Q1: Are heart palpitations always dangerous?
A: No. Many are harmless and caused by lifestyle factors, but persistent palpitations need medical evaluation.
Q2: Can anxiety cause palpitations?
A: Yes. Stress and anxiety are common triggers. Managing mental health often reduces episodes.
Q3: Should I see a cardiologist if I get frequent palpitations?
A: Yes, especially if they are associated with chest pain, dizziness, or fainting.
