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What Is a Heart Palpitation?

Contributor
By Perry Piekarski
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

This article covers heart palpitations, explaining what they are and what potential causes and treatments might be.

    Definition

  1. Heart palpitations are when an individual suddenly becomes aware of his own heartbeat without trying to focus on it. Heart palpitations are typically a symptom of another health issue.
  2. Treatment

  3. Since heart palpitations are often a symptom, treatment usually involves figuring out the cause and treating that. It is important to see a doctor for diagnosis, as heart palpitations could signify a serious problem. Some home treatments before diagnosis may involve dietary changes such as cutting your consumption of caffeine and alcohol.
  4. Possible Causes

  5. Heart palpitations can be related to any number of things. Sometimes it signifies an irregular heartbeat or a heart attack, very serious medical conditions. Other times it can be nothing at all. It's important to consult a medical doctor if heart palpitations become a concern or are an ongoing issue.
  6. Irregular Heartbeats

  7. Sometimes heart palpitations signify an irregular heartbeat. It is important to have this taken care of immediately, as this can be a very serious problem. Irregular heartbeats can be treated in a number of ways depending upon the cause. Injections, electricity, and certain medications can be prescribed as treatment for such issues.
  8. Warning

  9. If palpitations occur and are accompanied by pain, you should seek medical attention immediately. This could be the sign of a more serious heart-related issue such as a heart attack. Better safe than sorry.
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