Heart palpitations are best described as racing or pounding heartbeats. This unusual sensation, however, can manifest in other ways as well, including what often feels like your heart is skipping a beat --- also known as an ectopic heartbeat. A number of factors can contribute to this type of irregular heart rhythm; many of them involve lifestyle choices, one of which is your intake of caffeine.
Caffeine
Like any other stimulant, caffeine can cause your heart to work a little harder than normal. This may cause a small variation in the rhythm of your heart that translates into what feels like a skipped heartbeat or pulse. Though disconcerting, it's not usually a cause for alarm. Your heart is still pumping effectively, assures the Mayo Clinic.
Treatment
Treatment isn't often necessary for skipped or racing heartbeats. Your doctor will likely recommend eliminating those triggers that initiate the palpitations, explain the National Institutes of Health. In this situation, you should cut back on your intake of caffeine. Some people, however, are fairly sensitive to this stimulant, and cutting back doesn't improve symptoms. This may then require abstaining from foods and beverages that contain caffeine.
Intake
Most people can consume anywhere between 200 and 300 mg of caffeine a day without suffering adverse effects like palpitations. This is equivalent to two to four cups of coffee. When your intake reaches 500 to 600 mg --- or roughly five to seven cups of coffee --- you're far more likely to experience changes in the rhythm of your heart, among other symptoms, including insomnia, nervousness, upset stomach and irritability, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Warning
When palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, dizziness, loss of consciousness or severe shortness of breath, contact a doctor. This could be an indication of an underlying disorder, such as arrhythmia. Certain types of arrhythmias can increase your risk of cardiovascular complications, such as heart failure and stroke. Proper diagnosis is essential to proper treatment. If you're concerned with your heart palpitations, don't hesitate to make an appointment with a physician. It's always best to weigh on the side of caution.
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