At Cardiovascular Associates of Staten Island in Staten Island, NY, our team of experienced cardiologists evaluates a wide range of heart-related symptoms, including palpitations. These sensations can feel like fluttering, skipped beats, or a racing heartbeat and may occur randomly or in response to specific triggers. While many palpitations are harmless, they can sometimes signal an underlying cardiac issue that should not be overlooked.
What Causes Heart Palpitations?
Palpitations can have many causes, most of which are not due to an urgent heart disease. Some of the frequent etiologies are emotional stress, anxiety, caffeine, nicotine, medications, and supplements. Menstrual, pregnancy, or menopausal hormonal changes may also be implicated. Electrolyte imbalance or dehydration could be a factor. In some instances, palpitations are associated with arrhythmias or structural heart diseases like valve disease or cardiomyopathy. Since the symptoms themselves do not indicate the cause, it's wise to consult a doctor if palpitations are frequent, ongoing, or are accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
How Cardiologists Diagnose the Cause
Diagnosing the underlying reason for palpitations begins with carefully reviewing your medical history and discussing your symptoms. Your cardiologist will ask when the palpitations occur, how you describe them, what triggers them, and whether any other symptoms accompany them. A physical examination is employed to assess overall heart function.
Various diagnostic procedures can be utilized to obtain additional information. An electrocardiogram (EKG) records the heart's electrical activity and identifies most rhythm disorder types. For symptoms not occurring during a short office visit, a Holter monitor or event recorder can be employed to monitor heart rhythms for 24 hours or more. An echocardiogram gives clear pictures of the heart structure and pumping ability, and stress testing assesses how the heart performs with exercise. Blood tests may also reveal underlying illnesses such as thyroid disease or electrolyte imbalance.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
Even if palpitations seem mild or infrequent, they can sometimes be the first sign of a more serious condition such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, or heart valve disease. Left untreated, these conditions can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, or other complications. Early diagnosis allows for appropriate treatment, including lifestyle changes, medication, or specialized procedures to correct the underlying problem.
If you’re experiencing palpitations, schedule an evaluation at Cardiovascular Associates of Staten Island. Call our Staten Island, NY office at (718) 667-0077 for expert cardiovascular care close to home.