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 5
What can help palpitations?
Treatment depends on what is causing your symptoms. Some patients need reassurance and changes to everyday habits. Others need treatment for an underlying condition or a specific heart rhythm.
1. Identify your triggers
Keep track of whether episodes follow caffeine, energy drinks, alcohol, nicotine, stress, or certain medications.
If you notice a pattern, reducing that trigger may help. Relaxation techniques, such as slow breathing, can also help manage stress. Triggers vary from person to person.
2. Treat an underlying medical problem
If palpitations are related to a thyroid disorder, an electrolyte imbalance, or another medical condition, treating that problem may improve symptoms.
Review your medications and supplements with your clinician. Do not stop prescribed medication or take potassium supplements on your own.
3. Treat the rhythm when needed
If testing identifies an abnormal rhythm, treatment may include:
- Observation: Some rhythms do not require medication or a procedure.
- Medication: To slow the heart rate or reduce abnormal rhythm episodes.
- Catheter ablation: For selected rhythms, a procedure that targets the tissue causing or supporting the abnormal electrical activity.
Your treatment depends on the rhythm, how much it affects you, and whether it poses a risk to your heart. An electrophysiologist—a cardiologist specializing in heart rhythms—can help determine which options fit your situation.
4. Know what to do during an episode
Stop your activity and sit down if you feel lightheaded. If you feel well enough, note when the episode started and capture a rhythm recording if available.
Follow any specific instructions your doctor has given you. Call 911 for chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or severe dizziness. Do not delay emergency care to record your rhythm.
The goal is to understand the cause, reduce symptoms, and treat any rhythm that could affect your health.
Updated October 2026. Educational information; your own care plan may differ. Medical illustrations are simplified examples for teaching.