Palpitation overview
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Palpitation Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Palpitation overview On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Palpitation overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor-In-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2]
Overview
A palpitation is an awareness of the beating of the heart, whether it is too slow, too fast, irregular, or at its normal frequency.
Causes
Palpitations may be brought on by overexertion, adrenaline, alcohol, disease (such as hyperthyroidism) or drugs, or as a symptom of panic disorder. It can also be associated with heart problems.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Many times, the person experiencing palpitations may not be aware of anything apart from the abnormal heart rhythm itself. But palpitations can be associated with other things such as tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness. Depending on the type of rhythm problem, these symptoms may be just momentary or more prolonged. Actual blackouts or near blackouts, associated with palpitations, should be taken seriously because they often indicate the presence of important underlying heart disease.