Palpitations
Palpitations mean a feeling that the heartbeat is unusually strong, fast, slow, or irregular. It may be short-lived or continuous.
The most common causes are stress, anxiety, caffeine, alcohol, fatigue, an overactive thyroid, or arrhythmias. Most often palpitations are harmless, but they can also indicate arrhythmias that require treatment.
Tests include an ECG, Holter monitoring, and blood tests. Treatment depends on the cause: lifestyle changes, medication, or, if needed, catheter ablation.
Practitioners – Palpitations
Aani Leppänen
Occupational health
Aapo Tonder
Occupational health
Aaro Kujanen
Psychology
Aaro Liukkonen
Occupational health
Aaro Vahtera
Psychology
Aatu Rajamäki
Occupational health
Ada Meriläinen
Occupational health
Adalmiina Aulakoski
Occupational health
Agneta Ahlfors
Psychology
Ahti Vainio
Occupational health
Frequently asked questions
When do palpitations require immediate medical attention?
Seek immediate care if palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness. A very fast or irregular pulse that lasts a long time is also a reason to seek urgent medical attention.
Can caffeine cause palpitations?
Yes. Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase heart rate and cause extra beats in sensitive people. If palpitations are related to coffee or energy drinks, it is worth trying to reduce them.
How does an ECG help in evaluating palpitations?
An ECG records the heart's electrical activity and can reveal arrhythmias, conduction disorders, or other heart problems. For short-lived symptoms, Holter monitoring is often needed to record heart activity for 24–48 hours.