Heart palpitations may present as a feeling that the heart is beating too fast, too hard, skipping beats or fluttering. This condition can occur at any time, whether at rest or during rigorous activity, according to MayoClinic.com. While generally diagnosed as harmless, heart palpitations can indicate more serious problems that may result in fainting, stroke, cardiac arrest and heart failure. A variety of common occurrences and more serious conditions can cause heart palpitations.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, a condition MayoClinic.com indicates as a possible cause of heart palpitations, occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, reports that the thyroid plays a part in controlling metabolism. Aside from heart palpitations, symptoms of hyperthyroidism include fatigue, development of goiter, heat intolerance, increased appetite and sweating, restlessness and weight loss. Physicians generally treat hyperthyroidism with medications, radioactive iodine to destroy the thyroid or surgery to remove the thyroid. Any treatment that results in loss of the thyroid necessitates the use of thyroid hormone replacement pills.
Pseudoephedrine
Heart palpitations may occur from using cold and cough medications containing pseudoephedrine, according to MayoClinic.com. Over-the-counter medications to treat congestion caused by colds work by narrowing blood vessels located in the lining of the nose, which reduces blood flow to the area and shrinking tissues inside the nose. FamilyDoctor.org reports that in addition to heart palpitations, medications with pseudoephedrine may cause high blood pressure, dizziness, nervousness and sleeping problems.
Stress
MayoClinic.com names stress as a common cause of heart palpitations. Stress -- normal psychological, physical or emotional pressure or strain occurring throughout the day -- may cause wear and tear on the human body over time. Stress may result in digestive issues, obesity, weakening of the immune system, nervous system reactions and cardiovascular problems, according to The Hormone Foundation. Physicians recommend exercising, relaxation activities, sleeping and seeking the support of friends and family to combat stress that can lead to heart palpitations.
