Heart palpitations are heartbeats that suddenly become more noticeable.
This information also explains when you should seek urgent medical attention.If you are getting recurrent episodes of palpitations it is worth discussing this with your GP who may arrange further outpatient tests such as a 24 hour ECG monitor.We may also have taken blood tests or a chest x ray. During your visit, we may have carried out a trace of your heart (an ECG, electrocardiogram) and taken some observations of your heart rate, blood pressure and temperature.Although palpitations can be caused by abnormal rhythms such as supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs) and atrial fibrillation which may require treatment, this is unusual and the vast majority do not need any treatment.Palpitations may seem alarming and be uncomfortable. This information discusses possible causes, how to avoid a recurrence and when to seek help. You have been seen in the Emergency Department because of heart palpitations.Download and print as a PDF (147kB pdf) On this page