Most of us are unaware of the beating of our hearts unless we have been running or exercising. But some of us notice a strong, fast, fluttering, or irregular hearbeat even when we are still. This may be more noticeable when lying down, particularly on our left side. This awareness of our heart beating medically known as PALPITATIONS, is usually a normal, benign sensation. The term Palpitation is commonly used to describe irregular, in particular, fast, heartbeats, too.
Palpitations are a common sign of everyday anxiety and fear, the typical flight or fight reaction. But they can be severe, too, as in a Panic Attack. A racing, pounding heart can also be a clue that you have been smoking, drinking too much alcohol, or consuming too much caffeine from coffee, tea, or colas. Palpitations can also signal cocaine or amphetamine abuse, or they can be a reaction to some common drugs that cause tremors, such as some decongestants, antidepressants, asthma medicines, and thryoid medications. Certain herbal supplements such as ginseng, and those touted for weight loss such as guarana and ephedra, can also make your heart race.
Palpitations can signal a plethora of medical problems as well. They can, for example, be a sign of a fever, anemia, low blood sugar, low pottasium levels, or hyperthyroidism.
Not surprisingly, Palpitations are a common sign of both benign and serious heart problems. These include Mitral Valve Prolapse (a very common and usually not too serious heart valve deformity) and Arrhythmias, abnormal or irregular heartbeats. Indeed, the terms Palpitation and Arrhythmia are often used interchangeably. When the heart beats too fast, it is referred to as Tachycardia. When it beats too slow, it is called Bradycardia.
If you feel an extra beat, it can be a sign a Premature Atrial Contractions, the most common and benign type of arrhythmia. On the other hand, if you feel like your heart occasionally skips a beat, it may be a sign of Premature Ventricular Contractions. While Premature Ventricular contractions are often benign, they can be a sign of heart disease or an electrolyte imbalance, an imbalance of mineral in the blood that can cause serious heart and kidney problems if untreated. Unfortunately, some Premature Ventricular Contractions are potentially life-threatening, especially when accompanied by a racing heart, dizziness, or fainting, or in a person with heart disease.