What is a palpitation and what are its treatments?

A palpitation is a ast or irregular heart beat. Palpitations are often felt by patients as skipped beats or a fast fluttering heartbeat. Palpitations can be due to heart rhythm disturbances, anxiety, dehydration, heavy caffeine intake, sleep apnea, or as a side effect of particular medications.

Treatment of palpitations is very much dependent on your doctor determining what is causing your palpitations. If a heart rhythm problem is found to be the cause, then your treatment may involve medications to stabilize the heart rhythm. In other more advanced cases, you may require a minimally invasive procedure such as a catheter based ablation, a pacemaker, or a defibrillator.

If you have risk factors or you have further questions about palpitations, please speak with one of the Total Cardiology Care cardiologists by calling (201) 216-9791.