You can define a palpitation as a skip of your heartbeat, an extra beat, or irregular beats. Heart palpitation is a form of abnormal heart rhythm known as arrhythmia. It happens when an electrical signal goes off in the wrong place at the wrong time, causing the heart to beat out of its usual rhythm.
What are the Symptoms of Heart Palpitations?
Many individuals experience palpitations when their heart briefly races or pounds, skips a beat, beats extra, or feels a fluttering or forceful beat. When you encounter a "missed" beat, it's likely an early heartbeat. This occurs when the heart contracts before the ventricles fill with blood, leading to minimal or no blood being pushed out to the body. Consequently, you don't sense that contraction as a beat. The subsequent beat feels more forceful as an extra volume of blood is pushed out.
If you encounter any of the following palpitations of the heart symptoms, it's essential to consult your doctor:
- Regular palpitations
- Fainting
- Vertigo
- Abnormal perspiration
- Giddiness
- Chest pain
Conclusion
Heart palpitations, or feeling your heart racing, are usually harmless. Yet, if accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or other heart palpitations symptoms, it could indicate a serious underlying issue. Consult with your healthcare provider promptly. Also, check your health insurance options to determine whether you are covered in the event of a medical emergency.