What should I do now?
Call 911
Call 911 for new or unexplained chest pressure that persists or returns, severe trouble breathing, collapse without normal recovery, or sudden face/arm weakness or trouble speaking. Do not drive yourself.
Contact your care team
Contact your care team for new, longer, or more frequent episodes, or reduced activity.
Keep your care plan
Record timing, duration, and symptoms when safe; save any available EKG recording.
SECTION 6
Preparing for your appointment
Your description of an episode can help us understand your palpitations—even if your heartbeat feels normal during the visit.
What should I bring?
- A symptom diary: When episodes happen, how long they last, and whether they start and stop suddenly.
- Associated symptoms: Chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting.
- Possible triggers: Activity, stress, caffeine, alcohol, or a recent medication change.
- A complete medication list: Include doses, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
- Relevant family history: Heart rhythm problems, heart disease, or unexplained sudden death.
Bring any available watch EKG recordings, heart-rate logs, or previous heart-test results.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What might be causing my palpitations?
- Do we know which rhythm is happening during my symptoms?
- Do I need a heart monitor, and for how long?
- Do I need treatment or further testing?
- Should I see an electrophysiologist?
- Are there activities or triggers I should avoid?
- What should I do if another episode occurs?
- When will we review my results?
Leave with a clear plan
Before leaving, make sure you understand your next steps: which tests are planned, how you will receive the results, and when to follow up.
If palpitations occur with chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or severe dizziness, call 911 rather than waiting for your appointment.
Updated October 2026. Educational information; your own care plan may differ. Medical illustrations are simplified examples for teaching.