Fluttering, Racing, Skipping Beats? Your GP Helps You Make Sense of Your Heart Palpitations
What Palpitations Feel Like
You might describe heart palpitations as fluttering, pounding, racing, skipping, or thumping in your chest. Sometimes they last only seconds; sometimes they come in episodes. You may feel worried when your heart behaves differently, especially if the sensation feels sudden or unfamiliar. Staying calm helps, and recognising that many causes are not dangerous helps you approach the situation thoughtfully rather than fearfully.
Why Palpitations Happen
Palpitations arise for many reasons. Some relate to everyday triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, dehydration, stress, poor sleep, illness, or intense exercise. Others relate to medical factors including thyroid issues, changes in hormones, underlying heart rhythm problems, or reactions to medicines and supplements. You experience them differently depending on your body, your health, and what else is happening in your life. Your GP helps you sort through these possibilities in a structured, safe way.
When to Pay Closer Attention
Palpitations deserve review when they occur frequently, last longer than expected, feel severe, or come with other symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, breathlessness, fainting, or overwhelming anxiety. These features do not automatically mean something serious, but they matter because they guide how urgently you need assessment. Trust your instincts—if something does not feel right, seeking care supports reassurance and safety.
How Your GP Helps You Understand What’s Going On
Your GP starts by listening to your experience. Sharing when palpitations happen, how they feel, how long they last, and what seems to trigger them makes assessment clearer. Your GP may examine your heart and blood pressure, ask about lifestyle factors, and consider tests such as a heart tracing (ECG), blood tests, or longer heart monitoring if needed. This approach supports accurate understanding rather than guessing. Your GP then explains findings in plain English and discusses next steps that suit your situation.
What Treatment and Support May Look Like
Care depends on cause and risk. For many people, simple steps—hydration, stress management, better sleep, reducing stimulants, adjusting certain medicines—make a meaningful difference. When a heart rhythm problem exists, your GP may involve a cardiologist, discuss specific treatments, or review ongoing monitoring. The aim focuses on safety, confidence, symptom relief, and long-term heart health, not just moment-to-moment reassurance.
Why Speaking Up Matters
You do not need to ignore palpitations or carry worry alone. Talking with your GP supports a calm, evidence-based approach instead of anxiety, guesswork, or misinformation. If you experience new, concerning, or persistent heart symptoms, make an appointment. You deserve clear explanations, thoughtful care, and a plan that respects your health, your comfort, and your peace of mind.
This article supports understanding and does not replace individual medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised guidance.