What Causes Heart Palpitations?

Causes of Heart Palpitations

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Heart palpitations are a common symptom experienced by many individuals, characterized by the sensation of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat. Understanding the underlying causes of heart palpitations is crucial for effective diagnosis and management. This article explores various factors contributing to heart palpitations based on recent research findings.

Cardiac Arrhythmias

One of the primary causes of heart palpitations is cardiac arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can be detected through monitoring devices. A study comparing the effectiveness of cardiac event recorders and Holter monitors found that event recorders were more successful in diagnosing arrhythmias during palpitations. This suggests that arrhythmias, such as supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation, are significant contributors to palpitations2.

Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

Research indicates that dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system can lead to heart palpitations. A study analyzing heart rate variability in patients with unexplained palpitations found that these individuals often have impaired cardiac autonomic function. This dysfunction is primarily manifested as a decrease in nocturnal vagus tone, which can contribute to the sensation of palpitations1.

Psychological and Stress Factors

Psychological factors, including stress and anxiety, are also linked to heart palpitations. A study on the effects of Melissa officinalis, a herbal remedy, demonstrated that reducing anxiety can decrease the frequency and intensity of palpitations. This highlights the role of psychological well-being in managing palpitations3.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can influence heart palpitations. A study examining the relationship between salivary cortisol patterns and palpitations in peri- and postmenopausal women found that those experiencing palpitations had blunted morning cortisol levels. This suggests that hormonal changes during menopause may contribute to palpitations4.

Conclusion

Heart palpitations can arise from a variety of causes, including cardiac arrhythmias, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, psychological stress, and hormonal changes. Understanding these underlying factors is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Further research is needed to explore these relationships and develop targeted interventions for individuals experiencing heart palpitations.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.