Most people experience palpitations and a racing heart rate from time to time, especially if they suffer from an anxiety or nervous disorder. Even stomach issues can cause palpitations. While most causes for these symptoms are benign, a common heart arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation or AFib could be responsible. AFib is a condition in which the atrial chambers of the heart quiver instead of pumping regularly, which can cause an irregular or racing heartbeat. How can you tell the difference between normal heart palpitations and AFib? Following are three ways you can spot an arrhythmia problem.

Accompanying Symptoms

Unlike benign palpitations, AFib is often accompanied by other symptoms. If your heart flutters for a few seconds and stops on its own, you're likely experiencing normal palpitations. However, if your palpitations are combined with any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention. 

  • Fatigue
  • Racing heart rate
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sweating
  • Chest Pain
  • Chest Pressure
  • Confusion
  • Faintness

Duration of Attacks

A racing heart caused by a panic attack or anxiety will calm down after 20 to 30 minutes. Similarly, normal palpitations usually only last a few seconds. AFib symptoms, on the other hand, can last for hours, days, weeks and months. They can also be permanent. If your symptoms persist for longer than a few minutes, it's a good idea to seek medical attention. Keep in mind that AFib can stop on its own. If your symptoms clear up on their own, that doesn't necessarily mean that you don't have an arrhythmia. 

Triggers and Timing

Certain activities and emotional states can trigger AFib symptoms. Excessive tiredness, illness, stress, hormonal imbalances, exercise, dehydration, certain medications, and alcohol can trigger episodes of AFib. If your symptoms accompany any of these triggers or if you recognize a pattern in your symptoms, you may have AFib. Normal palpitations usually occur out of the blue and do not normally follow any set pattern. 

There are several signs to watch out for if you're concerned about a heart arrhythmia. If you have multiple symptoms or if your episodes last a long time or follow a certain pattern, you should see a doctor. If you experience palpitations frequently, it's a good idea to see your doctor to rule out any underlying causes, such as an arrhythmia. In some cases, irregular heartbeats cause very few symptoms. So, it's important that you seek medical attention for any new or worrisome symptoms of palpitations.

For more information, contact Cayuga Medical Center or a similar location.

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