Heart palpitations are rapid or skipped heartbeats. Heart palpitations can be caused by stress, exercise or medications or they can occur as a result of another medical condition. The occurrence of heart palpitations is usually not considered serious as they do not affect the effectiveness of the heartbeat, according to MayoClinic.com. Determining the trigger and avoiding it can help most patients effectively treat heart palpitations. For others, there are methods of treatment available.
Treat Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia is one of the most common causes of heart palpitations. Treating arrhythmia as the underlying cause can stop the occurrence of heart palpitations. A patient's doctor may need to perform some tests and examinations to confirm a diagnosis of arrhythmia and assess how the body reacts to triggering situations such as stress. From that, the physician can develop a treatment plan or confirm some elements of the original diagnosis.Patients who experience heart palpitations should keep their doctor informed of any associated symptoms or changes in their cardiovascular health.
Avoid Drugs
Illegal drugs such as cocaine have been known to cause heart palpitations, states the MayoClinic.com. If illegal drugs are the cause of a patient's heart palpitations, it is imperative to cease use of the drug to support his overall health.
Implement Stress Management Techniques
Implementing stress management techniques can help to relieve heart palpitations. Yoga or meditation are gentler forms of treatment that can help a patient to process their stress in a safe and appropriate manner. Getting adequate rest each night is imperative. Additionally, exercise can be effective in the reduction of heart palpitations. Cardiovascular activity such as walking or jogging can help to strengthen the heart, enabling it to beat at a normal, healthy pace.
Refrain from Using Stimulants
Stimulants can have a direct effect on the body and heart. When experiencing the effects of stimulants, some patients report feelings of uneasiness or jitteriness. Whenever possible, patients who experience heart palpitations should avoid caffeine, nicotine, cold medications, herbal supplements and energy drinks. Although many patients use them to increase or maintain a particular energy level, this energy level is often short-lived.
