If you have ever felt your heart beating in your chest at a rapid rate or with an abnormal rhythm, you have felt palpitations. Some palpitations are normal, while some can be a sign of an issue. If you feel your heart beating in your chest after heavy exercise, this can be normal. If you feel your heartbeat while at rest, or after slight exertion, this could be a sign of one of the following:
- Iron deficiency anemia – People that have this also may feel tired a lot of the time, have foggy memory, thinning hair, brittle nails, dry skin, and/ or anxiety. It is commonly found in menstruating females, vegetarians and vegans. If you have any of these symptoms, please make an appointment with your doctor to get your iron levels checked.
- Hyperthyroidism - People with this may notice palpitations that come and go randomly, insomnia, an appetite that is generally bigger than his/her peers, fatigue or muscle weakness, skin dryness, tremors and/or anxiety. If you have any of these symptoms please go to see your doctor to check your thyroid levels.
- Anxiety – Can be brought on by stress. It is often associated with fear or panic, and can come with shortness of breath, dry mouth, numbness or tingling in the limbs, loose stools, cold and/or sweaty hands or feet. If you have any of these symptoms, please go to the doctor to check for an underlying cause.
Any if the above conditions can be treated by natural means. While you are at the doctor, get a referral for a naturopathic appointment and come see what we can offer you!
Palpitations can also be a sign of a serious heart problem if you have a preexisting heart condition and get a sudden onset of palpitations with shortness of breath, pain down your left arm, up to your jaw or into your stomach. Please go to the emergency room immediately.
Dr. Brewster Scott, N.D.
Naturopathic Physician
Victory Health & Wellness