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What Do Heart Palpitations Mean?

Any changes to your usual heartbeat can be alarming. Even occasional heart palpitations can make you worry that something serious is wrong with your health.

At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, our experienced team of cardiologists offer on-site testing services to uncover the root cause of heart palpitations.

We also work closely with you to identify treatments you may need to restore your heart’s rhythm and lower your risk for more serious cardiovascular complications.

Why you may have heart palpitations

Heart palpitations describe a fluttering or pounding feeling in your chest. You may also feel as if your heart is skipping beats or that it’s beating too fast.

Many people experience heart palpitations during physical activities and strenuous exercise. You may also develop heart palpitations because of:

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Strong emotions
  • Certain medications
  • Hormone changes

In most cases, heart palpitations aren’t a sign of a serious heart condition. However, to protect your long-term cardiovascular health, you should schedule a diagnostic evaluation with our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut if you experience frequent palpitations, even while at rest.

We also recommend an evaluation if you have symptoms that accompany the palpitations such as fainting, chest pain, severe dizziness, or shortness of breath. These issues can be signs that you have an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that may require treatment.

Diagnosing the cause of heart palpitations

To learn more about what’s triggering your heart palpitations, we perform a physical exam and may order blood tests to check your hormone levels.

You may also need diagnostic tests like an electrocardiogram (EKG), which records information about the electrical activity of your heart. If the EKG doesn’t provide enough information about your heart health, you may need to wear a Holter monitor for 24 hours or more to record more details about your heart.

We also offer exercise stress testing and chest X-rays on-site to determine the cause of your heart palpitations. Based on the results of your testing, our cardiology team creates a treatment plan to reduce your symptoms and protect your heart’s long-term health.

Treatment options for heart palpitations

For occasional heart palpitations, you may not need any treatment. Our team can suggest lifestyle changes that help reduce stress. We can also refer you for professional counseling if you need help managing depression.

If testing identifies an underlying arrhythmia or heart disease, you may need to make changes to your diet to improve your heart health and lose excess weight. Our team offers comprehensive nutrition services to ensure you’re giving your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and making the right food choices to protect your heart health.

More serious heart conditions may require medications or surgery. Our cardiology team specializes in different types of heart surgeries, including coronary bypass procedures, stent placement, and pacemaker placement. 

We help you make the most informed decision about your treatment options for heart palpitations that result from underlying cardiovascular conditions. Whether or not you need surgery, we provide support and guidance every step of the way. 

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for frequent heart palpitations, call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut office nearest to you or book an appointment online today. 

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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