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Most people experience what feels like a skipped or fluttering heartbeat now and then. We call them palpitations, which are usually harmless; they may be linked to stress, caffeine, or lack of sleep.
Sometimes, though, an irregular heartbeat can indicate an underlying arrhythmia that requires medical attention. For instance, atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common arrhythmia that can increase your risk of stroke or heart attack if left untreated.
At Advanced Heart Care Associates in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada, our expert team of board-certified cardiologists uses state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technology while maintaining a small-office mindset. This means you can trust our group to tailor premier cardiovascular care to your unique needs.
Here’s our take on what those irregular heartbeats may be signaling — and when it’s time to talk with a cardiologist.
What heart palpitations feel like
Most of us are unaware of our heartbeat unless we’re exercising rigorously, in a stressful situation, or maybe trying to get to sleep. Palpitations cause you to be unusually aware of your heartbeat. You may feel a fluttering sensation in your chest, a pounding sensation, skipped beats, or a fast or racing heartbeat.
Palpitations don’t automatically mean you have AFib. They can occur with anxiety, dehydration, fever, strenuous activity, certain medications, or stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine. Most last just a few seconds and are, overall, harmless.
However, new, recurring, long-lasting, or unexplained palpitation episodes are worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
How AFib changes your heart rhythm
Under normal circumstances, the heart follows an organized electrical pattern that keeps its chambers beating in coordination.
With AFib, the two upper heart chambers (the atria) receive chaotic electrical signals. So, instead of contracting in a steady rhythm, they quiver or beat irregularly.
That irregular rhythm can make the heartbeat feel fast, uneven, or unpredictable. AFib may last for minutes, hours, or longer.
Many people with AFib notice the irregular rhythm. Others have what is sometimes referred to as “silent AFib,” and discover the condition during a routine examination or heart monitoring.
Symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore
Our small-office mindset at Advanced Heart Care Associates means we want our patients to feel comfortable about scheduling an appointment whenever they’re concerned about their health.
Occasional palpitations may not be serious, but frequent, prolonged, or unexplained episodes deserve evaluation. It’s especially important to seek medical attention if your symptoms become more frequent or occur along with:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest pressure or discomfort
- Sensation of weakness
Because AFib can allow blood to pool in the atria, increasing your risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke, an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan are essential.
If palpitations occur with severe chest pain, significant difficulty breathing, fainting, or other alarming symptoms, always seek emergency medical care.
AFib treatment depends on the bigger picture
AFib treatment isn’t identical for everyone. Depending on your symptoms and individual risk factors, management may include medications to control heart rate or rhythm, medicines that reduce the risk of blood clots, cardioversion, catheter-based procedures, or lifestyle changes.
The goal is more than simply quieting an uncomfortable heartbeat. Proper evaluation helps address the rhythm problem while reducing potential complications.
Listen to your heart
A fluttering or racing heartbeat doesn’t always signal a serious problem, but don’t brush aside persistent or unexplained changes. If palpitations are becoming part of your routine, we recommend scheduling a cardiac consultation to learn whether further testing is appropriate.
Early evaluation can provide answers and an opportunity to manage arrhythmia before complications develop.
To speak with our team, contact your nearest Advanced Heart Care Associates office in Henderson or Las Vegas, Nevada today, or use our easy online booking tool to request an appointment at your convenience.