Palpitations

What it is: Heart palpitations occur when you become unusually aware of your heartbeat. Your heart may feel like it is racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats in your chest, throat, or neck.

Common causes:

• Strenuous physical exertion or exercise
• Stress, anxiety, or lack of sleep
• High intake of caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco
• Hormonal shifts during pregnancy or menopause

Self-care:

• Limit or avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.
• Practice slow breathing exercises and manage daily stress.
• Ensure you get adequate rest and remain well-hydrated.

When to seek help: Seek emergency medical care immediately or call 102 if palpitations happen alongside severe chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. Visit a health post, PHC, or hospital if palpitations occur frequently, last more than a few minutes, or if you have a known heart condition or a family history of heart problems.

If symptoms suggest a serious emergency, call 102 for an ambulance where available.