Some illegal drugs like cocaine and ecstasy are stimulants that can cause heart palpitations. Try to avoid or minimize your intake of caffeine. There are many options, but some popular options include: Including relaxation techniques in your weekly routine may help reduce heart palpations caused by stress or anxiety. If your palpitations don’t have a medical cause, you may be able to reduce symptoms by: Heart palpations usually don’t require treatment unless your doctor finds they’re caused by an underlying condition. Sometimes, doctors aren’t able to find the cause. Your doctor will need to address any underlying medical conditions. Treatment depends on the cause of your palpitations.

a coronary angiography that can check how blood flows through your heart.

an electrophysiology study that can check your heart’s electrical function.

a Holter monitor which consists of a small machine you wear that records your heart’s rhythm for 24 to 48 hours.

a chest X-ray that helps your doctor see if your heart is enlarged.

an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) that records the electrical activity of your heart.

an echocardiogram that uses sound waves to create live, moving images of your heart.

a stress test that involves studying your heart while your heart rate is elevated, either by walking briskly on a treadmill or by taking medication that speeds up the activity of your heart.

a urine test that measures electrolyte, blood cell, hormone, and blood sugar levels.

blood tests that check hormone and blood cell levels, as well as potassium and other electrolytes that can affect the rhythm of your heart.

A cardiologist may order certain tests to help diagnose or rule out certain diseases or heart problems. If necessary, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist. To start, your doctor will conduct a thorough physical exam and will likely ask you questions about your: The cause of heart palpitations can be very difficult to diagnose, especially if the palpitations don’t occur while you’re in the doctor’s office.

low levels of oxygen or carbon dioxide in the bloodĭiagnosing the cause of heart palpitations.

hormone changes due to pregnancy or menopause.

arrhythmia, or an irregular heart rhythm.

stimulants such as amphetamines and cocaineĪlthough heart palpitations can be harmless, they can also be an indication of an underlying heart condition, such as:.

prescription medications such as asthma inhalers and decongestants.

over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including cold and cough medications, herbal supplements, and nutritional supplements.nicotine from tobacco products such as cigarettes and cigars.Possible causes of heart palpitations include: Lifestyle triggers They’re also the second most common reason that people visit a cardiologist - a doctor who specializes in the heart.

One study estimates that 16 percent of visits to a doctor are because of heart palpitations. In some cases, they can be caused by a medical condition affecting your heart or another part of your body. Heart palpations can have a wide range of causes that include strong emotions, medications, and lifestyle factors.

Flutter in chest then cough