Having heart palpitations can be a frightening experience, especially if you have never had them before. Most of the time, however, heart palpitations are harmless and pose no real threat to you or your health. Although in some cases, they may signify an underlying heart condition which is why it’s important to visit our cardiologist in Nassau County.

What exactly are heart palpitations and what are the symptoms? People who experience heart palpitations most often describe them as the following:

  • It feels like your heart is beating too fast
  • It can feel like your heart is pumping too hard
  • Your heart is skipping beats
  • Your heart is fluttering

They can occur in the heart, throat or even the neck. They also can happen anytime, whether it is during rest or activity, while seated, standing or lying down. They often last a few seconds and then quickly pass, not requiring a doctor’s attention. Medical assistance is, however, required if the palpitations are accompanied by either fainting, chest pain/discomfort, severe dizziness or severe shortness of breath.

Typically, heart palpitations are not a sign of danger. Some common, harmless causes include:

  • Stress or anxiety
  • Strenuous exercising
  • Caffeine
  • Nicotine use
  • Fever
  • Herbal/nutritional supplements
  • Hormonal changes
  • Medications

Once in awhile, however, heart palpitations can be linked to more serious conditions such as:

  • An overactive thyroid gland
  • An arrhythmia of the heart
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Heart failure
  • Heart valve issues
  • Heart muscle problems

If you’re concerned about heart palpitations you have experienced, it may be best to get checked out by a medical professional for reassurance. At the Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island, Dr. Druz will perform a full evaluation in order to determine the cause, if any, of your heart palpitations. In order to fully examine the problem, Dr. Druz will most likely order one or multiple tests: echocardiogram, holter monitor, stress test or an x-ray of the chest. If a reason for the palpitations is discovered, Dr. Druz will conduct and enact the proper treatment that is best suited for you. Call our Mineola office at 516-746-1103 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Druz today!