Expert Cardiologist Discusses Heart Fluttering Causes and When to Seek Care

Post by : Saif Nasser

It's not uncommon to suddenly feel your heart flutter, skip a beat, or race unexpectedly—an experience that can be alarming and raise concerns about your health. Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist specializing in heart failure and transplants, reassures that while such sensations can evoke fear, they are not always a sign of danger. In many situations, the causes are straightforward, though certain indicators should raise red flags.

Dr. Yaranov explains that heart palpitations often signify a sudden awareness of the heartbeat, even for those who typically do not notice it. While this can induce anxiety among patients, he points out that many triggers are benign. Common culprits include excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, dehydration, stress, sleep deprivation, high-salt diets, thyroid issues, fevers, and specific supplements, like pre-workout mixes. Occasionally, rhythm problems may cause the heart to flutter intermittently.

Many patients expect a simple stethoscope exam when they report heart symptoms. However, Dr. Yaranov clarifies that a thorough heart evaluation encompasses much more. This often includes EKG or ECG monitoring, checking electrolyte levels, evaluating thyroid function, looking for anemia, and identifying both emotional and physical causes. Occasionally, patients might need to wear a heart monitor to catch infrequent irregularities.

While most heart flutters are benign and typically resolve without intervention, Dr. Yaranov cautions that certain symptoms necessitate urgent medical attention. If heart palpitations occur alongside chest pain, dizziness, or fainting, it's critical not to wait for improvement; immediate medical help is crucial. Such symptoms could indicate significant stress on the heart or an emerging dangerous rhythm issue.

Dr. Yaranov emphasizes the importance of remaining calm when experiencing heart flutters. More often than not, it’s just the body reacting to everyday factors such as stress, caffeine, or fatigue. However, recognizing the warning signs enables individuals to safeguard their health and seek assistance when necessary. Note that this report is based on user-generated content and has not been independently verified.