Feeling your heart race, flutter, or skip a beat can be unsettling, especially when it happens unexpectedly or repeatedly. While occasional palpitations are often harmless, ongoing or intense episodes may signal an underlying heart condition that needs attention. At the Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Care, serving patients in Kissimmee, Poinciana, and Davenport, FL, Dr. Aamir Javaid provides thorough evaluation and expert care for patients experiencing heart palpitations.
What Heart Palpitations Feel Like
Heart palpitations are often described as pounding, fluttering, racing, or irregular heartbeats. Some people notice them during physical activity, while others feel them at rest or at night. Palpitations may last only a few seconds or persist for longer periods. They can occur on their own or alongside symptoms such as lightheadedness, fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.
Common Causes of Heart Palpitations
Palpitations can be triggered by a range of factors, some benign and others more serious. Common causes include stress or anxiety, caffeine or stimulant use, dehydration, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Cardiac-related causes may include arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, premature heartbeats, or underlying heart disease. Because symptoms can overlap, professional evaluation is important to determine the exact cause.
When Palpitations Should Be Evaluated
You should consider seeing a cardiologist if palpitations occur frequently, last longer than a few minutes, or interfere with daily activities or sleep. Palpitations accompanied by dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath should be evaluated promptly. Early assessment helps identify rhythm disturbances before they lead to complications.
How a Cardiologist Evaluates Palpitations
At the Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Care, Dr. Aamir Javaid begins with a detailed review of symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. Diagnostic testing may include an electrocardiogram, heart monitoring, echocardiogram, stress testing, or blood work to assess heart rhythm and structure. Once the cause is identified, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medication, rhythm management strategies, or additional cardiac care when needed.
Protecting Your Heart Health
Managing heart palpitations often includes addressing contributing factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, hydration, sleep habits, and stress levels. Ongoing follow-up allows care to be adjusted as symptoms change and helps reduce the risk of future heart rhythm problems.
Schedule a Cardiology Evaluation
If you are experiencing heart palpitations or are unsure whether your symptoms are heart-related, expert evaluation can provide clarity and peace of mind. Contact the Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Care in Kissimmee, Poinciana, or Davenport, FL, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aamir Javaid. Call (407) 572-8900 to take the next step toward protecting your heart health.