Nassau County Heart Palpitation Specialist

What Are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitation is the feeling that a person gets when their heart is acting irregularly. It is often described as the feeling that the heart either skips a beat or beats too frequently. Some people have the sensation of heart trembling, racing or pounding. The feeling is primarily in the heart, but palpitations may be experienced in other areas like the neck and throat.

Are Palpitations the Same Thing as Arrhythmias?

No, palpitations are not the same thing as arrhythmias. A palpitation is a sensation of irregular heartbeat. An arrhythmia is an abnormal rhythm of the heart, and it is sometimes the cause of the palpitations.

What Causes Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are sensations of a fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat. can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, caffeine, nicotine, dehydration, and certain medications. Lack of sleep and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to palpitations. In some cases, they may be linked to underlying health conditions such as anemia, thyroid disorders, electrolyte imbalances, or heart-related issues like arrhythmias. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also trigger palpitations. If the palpitation is frequent, you should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Do You Need to See a Doctor if You Experience Palpitations?

You should see a doctor if the palpitations are frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or an irregular heartbeat. These could be signs of an underlying heart condition, such as an arrhythmia, or other health issues like thyroid disorders or anemia. A healthcare professional can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

How Are Palpitations Tested?

There are several different tests that can record the electrical impulses that create the heartbeat. An EKG test looks for abnormalities in the rhythm of the heart that could explain the palpitations. An EKG measures the electrical impulses for only seconds, so it may not detect the cause of the palpitations. Holter monitors are portable devices that allow for longer-term recording of the heart rhythm. The Holter monitor is essentially a continuous EKG, one that lasts for 1 to 3 days in total. If the Holter monitor testing does not detect any heart palpitations, an event recorder may be the next option recommended by the doctor. An event recorder is quite similar to a Holster monitor, but it doesn’t record the heartbeat continually. It is activated only when the patient is having symptoms, either manually or automatically. Event monitors are often worn for longer than Holter monitors, often for 2 to 3 weeks. An Echocardiogram, which is a non-invasive exam that includes a detailed ultrasound of the heart, may also be done.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Nassau County Cardiologist

If you’re experiencing frequent heart palpitations or have concerns, Cardiovascular Wellness located in Hicksville and Lake Success is here to help. Our team can perform a thorough evaluation, including diagnostic testing, to determine the cause and recommend the best treatment for your heart health. Schedule an appointment with Cardiovascular Wellness today.

Cardiovascular Wellness Specialty Care, P.C. serves all of Long Island, New York, with locations in Lake Success and Hicksville, including Nassau County, Suffolk County, Great Neck, Manhasset, and surrounding areas.