

carry out an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart rate (if your GP has the equipment available).ask about your symptoms and medical history.

you're concerned about the palpitations.the palpitations last a long time, occur often or are getting worse.The symptoms should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms could suggest a serious or potentially life-threatening heart problem. They're unlikely to be caused by a serious problem and probably won't need treatment.Ĭall 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest emergency department if you have heart palpitations and any of the following symptoms: You don't usually need to see your GP if the palpitations pass quickly and occur only occasionally. a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above.postural or orthostatic hypotension – dizziness and low blood pressure triggered by changing position (such as standing up).anaemia – a reduced number of red blood cells.low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)– this is most commonly associated with diabetes.an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) – where the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormones.The following conditions can also sometimes cause heart palpitations: Some of these conditions can be serious and often require treatment. congenital heart disease – birth defects that affect the normal workings of the heart.heart failure – where the heart is unable to pump blood around the body properly.cardiomyopathy– where the heart muscle and walls of the heart become enlarged and thickened.a problem with the heart valves, such as mitral valve prolapse.Some palpitations may be associated with other problems with the heart, such as: These conditions are known as arrhythmias. ventricular tachycardia – a more serious and typically fast, regular heart rhythm disturbance that can be associated with dizziness or blackouts.supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) – a heart rhythm problem that causes episodes of an abnormally fast but regular heart rate - it's common in young people.atrial flutter – a rhythm disturbance that can be fast and either regular or irregular.

