Palpitations are unpleasant sensations of irregular and/or forceful beating of the heart. Heart palpitations can be caused by:
• Anemia
• Anxiety, stress, fear
• Caffeine
• Certain medications, including those used to treat thyroid disease, asthma, high blood pressure, or heart problems
• Cocaine
• Diet pills
• Exercise
It is normal to hear or feel your heart “pounding” as it beats faster when you exercise or do other physical activities. But if you have palpitations, you might feel your heart pounding while you are just sitting still or moving slowly. A slow heart rate is called bradycardia. An occasional extra heartbeat is known as extrasystole. Be sure to check with your doctor if you are experiencing heart palpitations or other heart concerns.
