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Heart Palpitations Quiz
URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/quiz/003081.htm

Heart Palpitations Quiz

Which of these may be a symptom of heart palpitations?

The correct answer is all of the above. You may have one or more of these symptoms.

Are palpitations dangerous?

The correct answer is maybe. Most of the time, palpitations are not dangerous. Palpitations are only a symptom and not an illness or medical problem. However, heart palpitations can also be a sign of a serious heart problem. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms to be safe.

If you're experiencing frequent or severe heart palpitations, how soon should you seek help?

The correct answer is immediately. Seek help right away if you are short of breath, have chest pain, feel dizzy, lightheaded, sweaty, or if you just don't feel well. You should also see your doctor if your pulse is beating very fast or feels irregular, or if you have fainted. Even if your palpitations aren't bothering you, make an appointment with your doctor for a check-up.

If you're having palpitations, does that mean you have a heart problem?

The correct answer is maybe. Palpitations are a common symptom and are often not a sign of a heart problem. However, people with heart disease may be more likely to have problems that cause palpitations. Some of these heart problems include narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease), heart failure, abnormal heart valves, and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmia).

Which other medical problems may cause heart palpitations?

The correct answer is all of these can cause palpitations. An overactive thyroid can cause heart palpitations. So can a low blood count (or anemia) -- the heart may need to beat faster or harder when you have anemia. Medicines used for asthma, many cough and cold medicines, and other medicines may cause palpitations. During pregnancy, your heart works harder to pump more blood.

Drinking too much caffeine may cause heart palpitations.

The correct answer is true. Caffeine excites or stimulates the heart, causing it to beat faster and sometimes causing an extra beat.

What else may cause heart palpitations?

The correct answer is all of the above. Many people under stress may notice skipped or extra beats. Some cough and cold medicines cause palpitations, as can drugs such as cocaine or amphetamines. Herbs and supplements can also cause changes in your body, including both minor and severe palpitations.

If you see a doctor for heart palpitations, will you need tests?

The correct answer is maybe. Your doctor will talk to you and check your pulse, listen to your heart, and perhaps perform an electrocardiogram (ECG). He or she will ask how often you have palpitations, how long they last, and what other symptoms you have. Based on the results, you may need blood tests to check for anemia or thyroid problems. You may need a chest x-ray, echocardiogram, or need to wear a device for days or weeks that records your heart rate.

What can you do at home to prevent palpitations?

The correct answer is all of the above. It's important to get checked by your doctor. The tips mentioned above are steps you can take to help prevent or reduce the amount of palpitations you have. Reducing stress can help a lot. Take some time off, try some activities that you enjoy, and learn how to relax. If stress is a special concern, you may want to get extra support.

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