Experiencing the sensation that your heart has skipped a beat can be startling.

Often described as a flutter, a palpitation, or a momentary pause, this phenomenon can provoke anxiety, especially if it happens frequently.

Understanding the reasons behind this sensation can help alleviate concerns and guide you towards maintaining a healthy heart.

Want to know more about skipping your heart beat?

Karetrip is here to help you understand the reason behind this sensation.

What Are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering or pounding heart. Stress, exercise, medication or, rarely, a medical condition can trigger them.

Although heart palpitations can be worrisome, they're usually harmless. Rarely, heart palpitations can be a symptom of a more serious heart condition, such as an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), that might require treatment.

So, if a skipped beat is a reaction to an electrical impulse from a different location within your heart, what’s causing that sensation in the first place?

Heart palpitations are often not serious. Sometimes, a skipped heartbeat is a reaction to factors like:

• Caffeine use
• Alcohol use
• Dehydration
• Exercise
• Illness
• Poor sleep
• Stress and anxiety

But less commonly, heart palpitations can be associated with more concerning conditions, like:

• Atrial fibrillation
• Heart disease
• Cardiomyopathy

Here are some common reasons why you might feel like your heart has skipped a beat:

Premature Heartbeats

Premature heartbeats, known medically as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or premature atrial contractions (PACs), are the most common cause of the sensation that your heart has skipped a beat.

These are early heartbeats that originate from either the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart) or the atria (upper chambers of the heart).

After a premature beat, there is typically a pause, which can feel like a skipped beat, followed by a stronger beat as the heart returns to its regular rhythm.

Causes

• Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety are significant contributors to premature heartbeats. The body’s response to stress involves the release of adrenaline, which can affect the heart’s rhythm.

• Caffeine and Stimulants: High intake of caffeine, nicotine, or other stimulants can lead to premature beats.

• Exercise: Vigorous physical activity can sometimes trigger premature beats, especially if the body is not accustomed to the exertion.

• Electrolyte Imbalances: Electrolytes like potassium, calcium, and magnesium play crucial roles in heart function. Imbalances can disrupt the heart’s electrical signals.

Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that occurs when the two upper chambers of your heart experience chaotic electrical signals. The result is a fast and irregular heartbeat. While AFib is more common in older adults, it can occur at any age.

Symptoms:

• Irregular Heartbeat: Unlike the occasional skipped beat, AFib causes a sustained irregular rhythm.

• Palpitations: AFib can cause noticeable palpitations.

• Fatigue and Shortness of Breath: These symptoms often accompany AFib, especially during physical activity.

Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition in which the two valve flaps of the mitral valve do not close smoothly or evenly but instead bulge (prolapse) upward into the left atrium. This can sometimes cause heart palpitations and a sensation of skipped beats.

Symptoms:

• Palpitations and Chest Pain: People with MVP often report palpitations or chest pain.

• Dizziness and Shortness of Breath: These symptoms can occur if MVP leads to significant regurgitation (backward flow of blood).

Causes:

• Genetic Factors: MVP often runs in families.

• Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions like Marfan syndrome can cause MVP.

Lifestyle Factors

Various lifestyle factors can contribute to the sensation of skipped heartbeats.

Diet and Stimulants:

• Caffeine and Alcohol: Excessive consumption can lead to palpitations.

• Medications and Supplements: Certain medications, particularly decongestants and diet pills, can act as stimulants.

Stress and Lack of Sleep:

• Chronic Stress: Long-term stress increases the risk of palpitations.

• Sleep Deprivation: Not getting enough sleep can affect heart rhythm.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions and illnesses can also lead to palpitations and the sensation of skipped heartbeats.

• Hyperthyroidism:

Overactive Thyroid: The thyroid gland controls metabolism, and an overactive thyroid can lead to increased heart rate and palpitations.

• Anemia:

Low Red Blood Cell Count: Anemia can cause palpitations as the heart works harder to supply oxygen to the body.

• Fever and Infections:

Body's Response to Illness: Infections and fever can increase heart rate, leading to palpitations.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While occasional heart palpitations are usually not a cause for concern, you should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: Regular or worsening palpitations need medical evaluation.

• Associated Symptoms: If palpitations are accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, seek immediate medical help.

• Existing Heart Conditions: If you have a history of heart disease, it's important to report any new or unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose the cause of heart palpitations, your doctor may recommend:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of your heart.

• Holter Monitor: A portable device worn for a day or more to record your heart’s activity.

• Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound waves to create a picture of your heart.

Treatment:

• Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep can significantly reduce palpitations.

• Medications: Beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic medications may be prescribed.

• Treating Underlying Conditions: Managing conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia can resolve palpitations.

The sensation that your heart has skipped a beat can be unsettling, but understanding the potential causes can help you manage your concerns.

While often benign, persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions and ensure your heart stays healthy.

Remember, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, including managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive stimulants, can go a long way in keeping your heart rhythm steady and strong.