Reviewed by Dr. Badal Kalamkar, MD on Feb. 04, 2026
Feeling your heart race, flutter, or skip a beat can be scary, especially if it happens out of the blue. Many patients worry that heart palpitations are a sign of something serious. The good news is that palpitations are very common, and most are not dangerous.
However, understanding what heart palpitations are and their causes could help you protect your health by preventing a more severe case that requires medical attention.
What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations are the feeling of being aware of your heartbeat. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), palpitations can happen when your heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
They may last for seconds or minutes and can happen once or recur over time. Palpitations are a symptom, not a diagnosis. That means they describe how your heart feels, not necessarily heart disease.
What Do Palpitations Feel Like?
MedlinePlus explains that people describe palpitations in various ways. Common sensations include:
- A fluttering heart
- A pounding heartbeat
- A racing or rapid heartbeat
- A skipped or extra beat
- A feeling that the heart “flips” in the chest
Some people feel palpitations in their chest, throat, or neck. They may happen while resting, exercising, or even lying in bed at night.
Common Causes of Palpitations and Irregular Heartbeats
There are many causes of heart palpitations, and most are not life-threatening, according to the NHLBI.
Benign (Common and Harmless) Causes
Government health sources note that everyday factors often trigger palpitations, including:
- Stress or anxiety
- Cafferin (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
- Dehydration
- Lack of sleep
- Exercise
- Nicotine
These palpitations often improve once the trigger is addressed.
Medical Causes
Sometimes palpitations are linked to medical conditions, such as:
- Anemia (low red blood cell count)
- Thyroid disease, especially an overactive thyroid
- Fever or infection
- Low blood sugar
- Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)
- Certain viral infections
This is why it’s important to talk with a primary care provider, especially if palpitations occur often or are accompanied by other symptoms.
Common Types of Irregular Heartbeats (Arrhythmias)
Some irregular heartbeats that doctors commonly see include:
- Premature atrial contractions (PACs): Early beats from the upper heart chambers
- Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs): Extra beats from the lower chambers
- Atrial fibrillation: An irregular, often fast rhythm that increases stroke risk
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): Episodes of very fast heart rate
Many PACs and PVCs are harmless, but atrial fibrillation and SVT may need treatment.
How Palpitations Are Evaluated in Primary Care
Primary care is usually the best first place to start.
Your visit may include:
Medical history and physical exam
Your provider will ask when the palpitations occur, how long they last, and whether you have symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
EKG and Basic Labs
An EKG for palpitations records the heart’s electrical activity and can detect rhythm problems. Blood tests may check thyroid function, anemia, or electrolyte levels.
Heart Rhythm testing at home
If your palpitations come and go, your provider may order a Holter or event monitor to track your heart rhythm over time.
When to See a Primary Care Doctor for Palpitations
You should schedule a visit if palpitations:
- Happens often or lasts longer than a few minutes
- Are getting worse over time
- Occur with dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath
- Wake you from sleep regularly
Seek emergency care right away if palpitations come with severe chest pain, fainting, or trouble breathing.
At Zenith Primary & Urgent Care, we make it easy to get started. Zenith Primary Care is accepting new patients from Marlborough, Ashland, Berlin, Bolton, Framingham, Hopkinton, Hudson, Maynard, Northborough, Southborough, Stow, Sudbury, Wayland, and Westborough.
We offer same-day and next-week appointments, and our clinic is open daily until late for after-work or weekend visits. Whether you need a physical, lab tests, or quick relief from sudden symptoms, our care team is here for you.
Call 627-500-7933 or book online here to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Palpitations
Can anxiety cause heart palpitations?
Yes. Anxiety and stress are common causes of palpitations.
Are palpitations common at night?
Yes. Many people notice palpitations more when lying down or resting quietly.
Can dehydration cause an irregular heartbeat?
Yes. Dehydration can affect electrolytes, which help control heart rhythm.
How long is too long for palpitations to last?
Palpitations that last more than a few minutes, happen often, or cause symptoms should be checked by a doctor.
