Irregular Heartbeat: Symptoms, Causes, and What to Do

Ever felt your heart skip, race, or flutter in your chest and wondered if it’s serious? An irregular heartbeat — also called an arrhythmia — can feel scary, but knowing what to watch for and the next steps makes a big difference.

Quick signs and when to act

Common symptoms include a fluttering feeling, fast pulse, skipped beats, chest tightness, lightheadedness, or fainting. If you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or a weak pulse, call emergency services right away. For milder symptoms, book a same-day visit with your doctor — don’t wait weeks.

Want a simple check at home? Take your pulse for 30 seconds when relaxed. If it’s regularly too fast (>100 bpm), too slow (<50 bpm) for someone not on heart meds, or very irregular, mention it to your clinician. Many smartphone apps can record rhythm or guide you to count beats, but they don’t replace a medical exam.

Common causes and what they mean

Arrhythmias can come from many things: caffeine, stress, low or high potassium, thyroid problems, infections, heart disease, or medications. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common type that raises stroke risk. Some drugs used for other conditions can change heart rate — that’s why checking meds matters.

Treatment depends on the type and risk. Some harmless palpitations need no treatment other than lifestyle changes. Others need medication, blood-thinning drugs (for AF), or procedures like electrical cardioversion or catheter ablation. Your doctor will weigh risks and benefits with you.

Tests your doctor may order include a resting ECG (electrocardiogram), a 24–48 hour Holter monitor, event recorders for intermittent symptoms, blood tests (like thyroid and electrolytes), and sometimes an echocardiogram to check heart structure.

Lifestyle steps that help: cut back on caffeine and stimulants, limit alcohol, manage stress, sleep well, and treat anemia or thyroid problems if they’re present. If you smoke, quitting lowers overall risk fast.

If you take heart or other prescription meds, don’t stop them on your own. Changes in dose or switching drugs should be done with a clinician. Buying medication online can be safe if you use licensed pharmacies — check reviews, require a prescription, and avoid sites that sell prescription drugs without one.

Below are useful articles from our site that can help you learn more about medications and safe online options:

  • Exploring Top Inderal Alternatives for Hypertension and Heart Health — a look at beta-blocker options and when alternatives matter.
  • Top 7 Alternatives to Cialis — erectile dysfunction meds can affect blood pressure; good to know if you have heart issues.
  • Viagra Soft for Sale Online: Essential Guide — explains interactions and safety concerns for heart patients.
  • Your Guide to Buying Medication Safely and Easily on top-rx-market.com — tips for finding legitimate online pharmacies and avoiding scams.
  • How and Where to Buy Bupron SR Online Safely in 2025 — practical buying tips; check with your doctor about heart effects before ordering.

If you’re unsure about symptoms or a medication, call your clinic. Quick checks and clear information often stop small problems from becoming big ones.

Depression and Irregular Heartbeat: Unraveling the Connection
Angus MacAlister 25 February 2025
Depression and Irregular Heartbeat: Unraveling the Connection

Depression and irregular heartbeat might seem unrelated at first, but they are more connected than you'd think. This article explores how emotional health impacts your heart's rhythm. We dive into scientific studies and offer practical advice to manage these intertwined issues. Understanding this connection can help you take better care of your overall health.