Physical Address

304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Palpitations


Palpitation is an awareness of the heartbeat. Although benign in the vast majority, palpitations are occasionally a manifestation of a life-threatening disorder.

Causes

Sinus tachycardia

  • ●

    Anxiety/emotional stress

  • ●

    Caffeine

  • ●

    Nicotine

  • ●

    Alcohol

  • ●

    Infection

  • ●

    Hyperthyroidism

  • ●

    Electrolyte disturbances

Cardiac arrhythmia

  • ●

    Premature ventricular contractions (ventricular ectopic beats) *

  • ●

    Premature atrial contractions (atrial ectopic beats) *

  • ●

    Atrial fibrillation * ( Fig. 47 )

    Figure 47, ECG of atrial fibrillation .

  • ●

    Supraventricular tachycardia (AVRT, AVNRT)

  • ●

    Ventricular tachycardia (long QT syndrome)

* Indicates causes that tend to present as irregular palpitations.

You're Reading a Preview

Become a Clinical Tree membership for Full access and enjoy Unlimited articles

Become membership

If you are a member. Log in here

Related Posts