If you’ve ever had the sensation that your heart is beating in an unexpected way, you’re familiar with the feeling of heart palpitations.
Heart palpitations are usually not serious. However, it’s very important to have them evaluated to rule out a potentially problematic heart condition.
Here at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC in Hamden, Connecticut, our providers are experts at diagnosing and treating a full range of heart conditions, including heart palpitations. We’d like to share this important information about the causes of heart palpitations with you.
When you have heart palpitations, you become aware of your heart beating in a way that’s different from your usual heartbeat. You may feel that your heart is doing any of the following:
Heart palpitations may be accompanied by difficulty breathing, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
Heart palpitations can have a variety of causes, including the following:
When you feel anxious or stressed, your heart rate can speed up. You may also become more aware of the beating of your heart.
Exercise elevates heart rate because your body is speeding up the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to your cells.
These stimulants increase blood flow and raise your heart rate.
Your thyroid regulates your metabolism and many other body processes. When it’s overactive, a condition known as hyperthyroidism, your heart may beat too fast. Likewise, when you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), and your prescribed dose of thyroid hormone is too high, you may experience heart palpitations.
A low level of potassium in your blood can interfere with a normal heartbeat, increasing the rate.
Drugs that stimulate your body, including some types of antidepressants and certain medications used to treat colds or asthma, can cause an increased heart rate. Palpitations can also occur in people who use cocaine or other street drugs.
In most cases, heart palpitations are not a sign of a serious heart condition. But, occasionally, they can signal the presence of conditions such as arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, or heart failure. The only way to know for sure what’s causing your heart palpitations is to receive a medical evaluation.
Palpitations can often be reduced through lifestyle modification. For example, if your palpitations are linked to anxiety or stress, relaxation strategies such as meditation or yoga can help calm you down. If they occur because of excess caffeine intake, switching to decaf may help.
If you’re experiencing heart palpitations or other symptoms, HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC is here to help. We can perform a comprehensive exam to discover the underlying cause of your heart palpitations and help get you back to normal.
To schedule an appointment with one of our providers give us a call at one of our many locations, or book an appointment online.
With Thanksgiving at the heart of this month, we naturally focus on gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and creating cherished memories. But beyond the food and festivities, November serves as a poignant reminder of something even more fundamental: our health. This November, let’s embrace the spirit of gratitude for both our relationships and our
The autumn season brings with it outdoor activities, seasonal celebrations, along with shorter days and colder temps. Fall is a fantastic time to focus on health and fitness by taking advantage of the season’s fresh produce and moderate weather. Start your fall off right and fend off flu season with these helpful tips to
To kick off September we celebrate National Labor Day, which honors America’s workers for their social and economic accomplishments. Their contributions to the country’s well-being remind us that we rely on each other to grow and succeed. Whether you’re employed or have a family to tend to, your health is important to those you love
When your body is faced with extreme heat, it can put a strain on your vital organs. Although heat-related deaths are preventable, approximately 1,220 people die every year in the U.S. from severely high temperatures. That’s why it’s important to take the heat seriously by caring for your body and eating and drinking the right
Summer offers sunshine, longer days, and outdoor fun, but it also brings heatwaves that can be tough on your heart. The intense July temperatures can pose significant health risks, especially for those with existing heart conditions. Follow these essential tips to keep your heart healthy and safe during the summer heat. By following these precautions,
It’s easy to get swept up in summertime fun, but there are many reasons to take the hot temps seriously and choose safety first. In 2023, there were 2,302 heat-related deaths in the U.S. and heat-related deaths continue to increase each year. There are many ways that high temperatures affect our health. It can increase
HeartCare Associates of Connecticut provides the highest level of care to our patients. From treatments of common coronary problems, to non-invasive and state-of-the-art procedures, to life saving surgeries our dedicated and compassionate staff will make you feel at ease.
Some of the most common illnesses and issues we treat are:
Aneurysms
Cardiac Catherterization, Angiography & Stenting
Congestive Heart Failure Treatment Center
Coronary Bypass Surgery
Coronary Heart Disease
Coumadin & Anticoagulation Clinic
Diabetes
Dizziness, Palpitations, & Heart Rhythmn
Heart Valve Problems
High Cholesterol & Triglycerides
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Nuclear Cardiac Scanning
Nutrition Programs
Pacemakers
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Preventive Health Programs
Stroke Prevention
Swelling (Edema) of the Legs & Ankles
Treatment & Prevention of Obesity
Ultrasound Testing & Echocardiography
Vein Care
Womens Health