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HEALERS CLINIC

INTEGRATIVE HEALTHCARE • DUBAI

Heart Palpitations

Understanding causes, warning signs, and integrative treatment options

Cardiac Cardiac
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What are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are sensations of the heart beating rapidly, pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats. While often harmless, they can sometimes indicate an underlying heart condition. At Healers Clinic, we take an integrative approach to understand the root cause and provide comprehensive treatment options.

Heart palpitations can occur at any age and range from mild, occasional awareness of your heartbeat to persistent, uncomfortable sensations. While they are often harmless and resolve on their own, palpitations can sometimes signal an underlying heart condition that requires medical attention. At Healers Clinic in Dubai, our integrative approach helps identify the root cause and develop an appropriate, personalized treatment plan.

What Do Heart Palpitations Feel Like?

Patients describe heart palpitations in various ways:

"My heart feels like it's pounding in my chest"

"It feels like my heart is fluttering or flip-flopping"

"My heart is racing even when I'm sitting still"

"I feel like my heart skipped a beat"

"I can feel my pulse in my chest and throat"

"My heart feels like it's jumping around"

"I feel a pounding in my neck along with my heartbeat"

"My heart suddenly starts beating very fast for no reason"

These sensations may last a few seconds, minutes, or longer. They can occur at rest or during activity, and may be occasional or frequent.

Common Causes of Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations can originate from cardiac conditions or be triggered by lifestyle factors and other health conditions

Cardiac Causes

  • Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

    Rapid, irregular heartbeat originating from the atria, the upper chambers of the heart

  • Atrial Flutter

    Fast but regular atrial rhythm that can convert to atrial fibrillation

  • Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

    Fast heart rate starting above the ventricles, causing sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat

  • Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)

    Extra heartbeats originating from the ventricles, causing a 'flip-flopping' sensation

  • Ventricular Tachycardia

    Fast heart rhythm starting in the ventricles, potentially serious requiring immediate attention

  • Heart Valve Disease

    Problems with heart valves affecting blood flow and electrical signals

  • Coronary Artery Disease

    Narrowed arteries reducing blood flow to the heart muscle

  • Cardiomyopathy

    Disease of the heart muscle affecting its structure, size, and pumping ability

  • Heart Failure

    Weakened heart muscle unable to pump blood efficiently

  • Previous Heart Surgery

    Scarring or damage to heart tissue affecting electrical pathways

Non-Cardiac Causes

  • Stress and Anxiety

    Emotional stress and anxiety disorders triggering the body's fight-or-flight response

  • Panic Attacks

    Intense episodes of fear and anxiety causing dramatic physical symptoms

  • Caffeine

    Stimulant effect on the heart from coffee, energy drinks, tea, and chocolate

  • Alcohol

    Especially binge drinking or consuming large amounts can trigger heart rhythm disturbances

  • Nicotine

    Smoking, vaping, or tobacco products affecting heart rate and rhythm

  • Dehydration

    Electrolyte imbalances affecting heart electrical activity

  • Low Blood Sugar

    Hypoglycemia causing adrenaline release and heart racing

  • Thyroid Disorders

    Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) increasing metabolism and heart rate

  • Medications

    Certain decongestants, asthma medications, thyroid drugs, and stimulants

  • Hormonal Changes

    Menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can cause palpitations

  • Sleep Apnea

    Breathing interruptions during sleep causing oxygen drops and stress response

  • Fever

    Elevated body temperature increasing heart rate

  • Exercise

    Intense physical activity temporarily increasing heart rate

Who Is at Risk for Heart Palpitations?

Several factors can increase your likelihood of experiencing heart palpitations

1

Age over 60

Risk of cardiac arrhythmias increases with age

2

Family History

Genetic predisposition to heart rhythm disorders

3

Heart Disease

Existing heart conditions increase risk of palpitations

4

High Blood Pressure

Hypertension puts strain on the heart

5

Stress and Anxiety

Chronic stress or anxiety disorders

6

Excessive Stimulants

High caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine consumption

7

Thyroid Problems

Hyperthyroidism or other thyroid disorders

8

Electrolyte Imbalances

Low potassium, magnesium, or other electrolytes

9

Certain Medications

Using medications that affect heart rhythm

10

Sleep Deprivation

Chronic lack of sleep increases stress on the heart

Associated Symptoms

Heart palpitations often occur with these related symptoms

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Feeling faint or unsteady, possibly due to reduced blood flow

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, even at rest

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest area

Fatigue

Unusual tiredness or weakness, especially during physical activity

Fainting or Near-Fainting

Loss of consciousness or feeling like you might pass out

Rapid Breathing

Breathing faster than normal, often accompanying anxiety

Sweating

Excessive sweating without physical exertion

Nausea

Feeling sick to the stomach during palpitations

Related Conditions

Heart palpitations can be associated with these medical conditions

Atrial Fibrillation

Irregular, often rapid heart rate causing poor blood flow

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Abnormally fast heart rhythm originating from the upper chambers

Mitral Valve Prolapse

Improper closing of the heart's mitral valve causing palpitations

Hyperthyroidism

Overactive thyroid gland causing rapid heartbeat and palpitations

Anxiety Disorders

Mental health conditions that trigger physical symptoms including palpitations

Anemia

Low red blood cell count causing the heart to work harder

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

Abnormal increase in heart rate when standing up

cardiomyopathy

Disease of the heart muscle that can cause arrhythmias

Diagnosis Process

How doctors identify the cause of your heart palpitations

1

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Records the electrical activity of the heart to identify abnormal rhythms

2

Holter Monitor

Portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours to capture intermittent palpitations

3

Event Recorder

Longer-term monitoring device activated when symptoms occur

4

Echocardiogram

Ultrasound of the heart to assess structure and function

5

Stress Test

ECG monitoring during exercise to identify exercise-induced palpitations

6

Blood Tests

Check thyroid function, electrolytes, and cardiac enzymes

7

Chest X-Ray

Images of the chest to assess heart size and lung condition

8

Electrophysiology Study

Detailed electrical mapping of the heart for complex cases

At Healers Clinic

Our integrative diagnostic approach combines conventional cardiac testing with additional assessments including Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha), NLS bioenergetic screening, and comprehensive constitutional evaluation to understand the full picture of your health.

Warning Signs & When to Seek Care

Pay attention to these red flags

Palpitations lasting more than a few minutes
Chest pain or pressure along with palpitations
Severe shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting or loss of consciousness
Rapid heartbeat exceeding 150 beats per minute at rest
Palpitations accompanied by confusion
Pain radiating to arm, jaw, or neck

When to Seek Emergency Care

Call emergency services (999 or 112) immediately if you experience any of these symptoms

  • Chest pain or pressure that feels like a heart attack
  • Severe difficulty breathing
  • Fainting or losing consciousness
  • Rapid heartbeat with dizziness and blurred vision
  • Palpitations lasting more than 10 minutes
  • Feeling like your heart is beating extremely fast without explanation
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Weakness or numbness on one side of the body

Don't wait. If you think you may be having a heart attack or serious cardiac event, call for emergency help immediately.

Our Unique Approach at Healers Clinic

What sets our integrative approach to heart palpitations apart

Root Cause Analysis

We don't just treat symptoms - we investigate the underlying causes of your heart palpitations through comprehensive assessment, combining conventional diagnostics with integrative medicine perspectives.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Every patient is unique. We develop individualized treatment plans that address your specific triggers, lifestyle factors, and health conditions using a combination of therapies.

Integrative Team Approach

Our team of cardiologists, homeopaths, Ayurvedic physicians, physiotherapists, and naturopaths work together to provide comprehensive care addressing all aspects of your health.

Ancient Wisdom + Modern Science

We combine evidence-based conventional medicine with traditional healing systems like homeopathy and Ayurveda to provide holistic, transformative healthcare.

Integrative Treatment Options

Our comprehensive treatment modalities for heart palpitations

Conventional Medicine

Evidence-based cardiology care including medication management, diagnostic testing, and coordination with cardiac specialists when needed.

ECG and cardiac monitoringMedication managementReferral to cardiac specialists

Homeopathy

Classical homeopathic treatment addressing the whole person, not just symptoms, using carefully selected remedies matched to your constitution.

Constitutional homeopathyAcute remedy prescribingMiasmatic assessment

Ayurveda

Traditional Indian medicine focusing on dosha balance, lifestyle modifications, and herbal support for heart health.

Dosha assessmentPanchakarma detoxHerbal formulationsLifestyle counseling

Physiotherapy

Targeted exercises and stress management techniques to support cardiovascular health and reduce palpitation triggers.

Cardiac rehabilitation exercisesBreathing techniquesStress reduction

Naturopathy

Natural medicine approaches including nutritional support, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications.

Nutritional counselingHerbal medicineStress management

Homeopathy for Heart Palpitations

Classical homeopathic remedies for heart palpitations based on constitutional type

Classical homeopathy treats the whole person, not just the symptom. A qualified homeopath will take a detailed case history including your physical, emotional, and mental characteristics, then prescribe a remedy that matches your unique constitutional type. Here are some commonly indicated remedies for heart palpitations:

Aconitum Napellus

Sudden onset palpitations with anxiety, fear of death, especially after shock or fright

Arnica Montana

Palpitations with sensation of soreness in chest, after physical exertion or trauma

Arsenicum Album

Palpitations with anxiety, restlessness, especially at night; person is fearful and perfectionist

Belladonna

Sudden, violent palpitations with bounding pulse, often accompanied by red face and dilated pupils

Cactus Grandiflorus

Palpitations with constriction in chest, sensation as if heart is gripped

Ignatia Amara

Palpitations from emotional upset, grief, or anxiety; often with sighing

Lycopodium

Palpitations with digestive disturbances, especially after meals; person is intellectually driven

Natrum Muriaticum

Palpitations from suppressed emotions, especially grief; person is reserved but internally sensitive

Nux Vomica

Palpitations from overwork, overindulgence in food/alcohol, or stress; person is competitive and impatient

Pulsatilla

Palpitations changeable in nature; person is emotional, seeks sympathy, worse in warm rooms

Spigelia

Palpitations visible to the eye, with sharp pains; person is sensitive and emotional

Strophanthus

Palpitations with weakness, especially from over-exertion or heart weakness

Note: Homeopathic remedies should be prescribed by a qualified classical homeopath after detailed case-taking. Self-prescription is not recommended.

Ayurveda for Heart Palpitations

Traditional Indian medicine approach to balancing heart health

Understanding Dosha Imbalances

Vata Dosha

Imbalance: Vata imbalance can cause irregular, fluttering palpitations with anxiety, dryness, and coldness

Approach: Grounding, calming treatments including warm oil massages, meditation, and Vata-pacifying diet

Pitta Dosha

Imbalance: Pitta imbalance can cause intense, rapid palpitations with heat, irritability, and inflammation

Approach: Cooling, soothing treatments including Pitta-pacifying diet, cooling herbs, and stress management

Kapha Dosha

Imbalance: Kapha imbalance can cause slow, heavy palpitations with congestion, sluggishness, and weight gain

Approach: Stimulating, lightening treatments including exercise, Kapha-pacifying diet, and active herbs

Ayurvedic Treatments & Therapies

Nadi Pariksha

Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis to assess dosha balance and heart health

Shirodhara

Continuous oil stream on forehead to calm nervous system and reduce palpitations

Abhyanga

Full body massage with medicated oils to improve circulation and reduce stress

Panchakarma

Deep detoxification treatments including Vamana, Virechana, and Basti

Herbal Formulations

Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and other herbs to support heart health

Yoga Therapy

Specific asanas and pranayama to balance heart energy and reduce stress

Dietary Counseling

Personalized diet according to dosha to prevent palpitations

Physiotherapy & Movement

Exercise and physical therapy approaches to support heart health

Breathing Exercises

Diaphragmatic breathing and vagal nerve stimulation techniques to calm the nervous system and reduce palpitations

4-7-8 breathingBox breathingDeep belly breathing

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Systematic tensing and releasing of muscle groups to reduce physical tension and anxiety

Jacobson's techniqueGuided relaxationBody scan meditation

Cardiac-Safe Exercise

Gradual, supervised exercise programs appropriate for individuals with heart palpitations

Walking programsGentle cyclingSwimmingTai Chi

Stress Management

Techniques to identify and manage stress triggers that can cause or worsen palpitations

Mindfulness meditationBiofeedbackCognitive behavioral techniques

Postural Corrections

Addressing postural issues that may affect heart function and contribute to palpitations

Spinal alignmentErgonomic adviceBreathing posture correction

Naturopathic Support

Natural medicine approaches to heart health

Nutritional Counseling

Personalized dietary recommendations to address nutritional deficiencies and reduce palpitation triggers

Magnesium-rich foodsPotassium balanceAvoidance of triggersMeal timing

Herbal Medicine

Evidence-based herbal supplements to support heart health and reduce anxiety

Hawthorn berryMotherwortLemon balmPassionflowerValerian root

Mind-Body Techniques

Integrative approaches addressing the connection between mental and physical health

MeditationGuided imageryYogaJournaling

Lifestyle Modifications

Practical changes to daily habits that can reduce or eliminate heart palpitations

Sleep hygieneStimulant reductionAlcohol moderationStress management

Detoxification

Support for the body's natural detoxification processes to reduce toxic burden on the heart

Gentle cleanseHydrationLiver supportLymphatic movement

Lifestyle & Self-Care

Practical tips to manage and reduce heart palpitations

1

Limit Caffeine

Reduce or eliminate coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate

2

Moderate Alcohol

Limit alcohol consumption; avoid binge drinking entirely

3

Quit Smoking

Stop all tobacco and nicotine products, including vaping

4

Stay Hydrated

Drink adequate water; dehydration can trigger palpitations

5

Manage Stress

Practice stress-reduction techniques daily; consider counseling

6

Get Adequate Sleep

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night

7

Regular Exercise

Engage in moderate, regular physical activity

8

Eat Regular Meals

Avoid skipping meals; maintain stable blood sugar levels

9

Track Your Triggers

Keep a diary of palpitations and potential triggers

10

Practice Deep Breathing

Use breathing techniques when you feel palpitations starting

Prevention Strategies

Long-term strategies to prevent heart palpitations

Regular Health Check-ups

Schedule annual physical exams and cardiac screenings

Maintain Healthy Weight

Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight through diet and exercise

Control Blood Pressure

Monitor and manage hypertension through lifestyle and medication if needed

Manage Thyroid Health

Regular thyroid function tests, especially if you have family history

Balance Electrolytes

Ensure adequate intake of potassium, magnesium, and calcium

Limit Stimulants

Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and avoid recreational drugs

Prioritize Mental Health

Seek treatment for anxiety, depression, or chronic stress

Sleep Quality

Address sleep apnea and other sleep disorders promptly

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about heart palpitations

What do heart palpitations feel like?
Heart palpitations can feel like your heart is racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats. You may feel these sensations in your chest, throat, or neck. Some people describe it as a 'flip-flopping' sensation or feeling like your heart is 'jumping' in your chest. The experience varies from person to person and can range from barely noticeable to quite distressing.
Are heart palpitations dangerous?
In most cases, heart palpitations are harmless and resolve on their own. However, they can sometimes indicate a serious heart condition, especially when accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or dizziness. It's important to have palpitations evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out underlying cardiac issues and determine the appropriate treatment.
What is the difference between heart palpitations and heart racing?
Heart palpitations is a broader term describing any abnormal awareness of your heartbeat, whether it's racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping. Heart racing (tachycardia) specifically refers to a heart rate faster than normal (typically over 100 beats per minute at rest). Palpitations can occur with or without an elevated heart rate.
Can anxiety cause heart palpitations?
Yes, anxiety and stress are among the most common causes of heart palpitations. When you experience anxiety, your body releases adrenaline (the 'fight or flight' hormone), which increases heart rate and can cause palpitations. Panic attacks can cause particularly intense episodes. However, it's important to have persistent palpitations evaluated to rule out cardiac causes.
When should I see a doctor for heart palpitations?
You should seek medical attention if palpitations last more than a few minutes, occur frequently, are accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, or if you have a history of heart disease. Seek emergency care immediately if you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or lose consciousness.
How are heart palpitations diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically starts with a thorough medical history and physical exam. Your doctor may order an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart's electrical activity. For intermittent palpitations, you may need a Holter monitor (24-48 hour portable ECG) or event recorder. Blood tests can check for thyroid problems or electrolyte imbalances. An echocardiogram may be used to assess heart structure.
Can homeopathy help with heart palpitations?
Classical homeopathy can be effective for heart palpitations by addressing the individual's constitutional type and the underlying emotional or physical triggers. A qualified homeopath will take a detailed case history and prescribe a remedy matched to your unique symptom picture. Common remedies include Aconitum, Ignatia, and Natrum muriaticum, but the appropriate remedy depends on your specific presentation.
What role does Ayurveda play in treating heart palpitations?
Ayurveda views heart palpitations as a disturbance in the Prana (life force) and relates to imbalances in all three doshas. Treatment focuses on identifying your dominant dosha and restoring balance through diet, lifestyle modifications, herbal formulations (like Arjuna), Panchakarma detox, and yoga therapy. Ayurvedic approaches are particularly effective for stress-related palpitations.
What lifestyle changes can reduce heart palpitations?
Key lifestyle changes include reducing or eliminating caffeine and alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress through meditation or yoga, getting adequate sleep, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers like certain medications or recreational drugs. Regular moderate exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating regular meals to prevent blood sugar drops can also help reduce palpitations.
How does Healers Clinic approach heart palpitations differently?
At Healers Clinic, we take an integrative approach that combines conventional cardiology with complementary therapies including homeopathy, Ayurveda, physiotherapy, and naturopathy. We investigate the root cause of your palpitations rather than just treating symptoms. Our team of specialists works together to create a personalized treatment plan addressing all aspects of your health - physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Take the Next Step

Your journey to better heart health starts here. Let our integrative team help you understand and treat your heart palpitations.

1

Book Your Consultation

Schedule an appointment with our integrative medicine team

2

Complete Assessment

Undergo comprehensive diagnostics to identify the cause

3

Receive Your Plan

Get a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs

4

Begin Treatment

Start your integrative treatment journey

5

Monitor Progress

Regular follow-ups to track improvement and adjust treatment

Book Consultation Contact Us

Healers Clinic
Phone: +971 56 274 1787
Address: St. 15, Al Wasl Road, Jumeira 2, Dubai, UAE

Related Symptoms

Heart Fluttering Heart Pounding Shortness of Breath Chest Pain Dizziness Irregular Heartbeat

Healers Clinic | Phone: +971 56 274 1787 | Address: St. 15, Al Wasl Road, Jumeira 2, Dubai, UAE