Who is at risk for palpitations?

Some people may be more likely to have palpitations, including people who:

• Have anxiety, panic attacks, or are highly stressed
• Take certain medicines or stimulants
• Have certain medical conditions that aren't related to heart problems, such as an overactive thyroid
• Have certain heart problems, such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), a previous heart attack, heart failure, heart valve problems, or heart muscle problems

Women who are pregnant, menstruating, or perimenopausal also may be at higher risk because hormonal changes can cause palpitations. Also, some palpitations that occur during pregnancy may be due to anemia.

This answer from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has been reviewed and/or edited by Dr. William D. Knopf.