Heart palpitations occur when a person feels that their heart is beating unusually—such as skipping a beat, contracting more forcefully, or suddenly racing. In most cases, heart palpitations are not dangerous and resolve on their own; however, in some situations they may signal a more serious health issue.
A heart palpitation is a subjective sensation in which it feels as though the heart has “skipped,” “fluttered,” or “thumped hard.” Some people notice that their heart beats too strongly or too quickly, while others feel that the rhythm becomes irregular. This sensation may be felt not only in the chest but also in the neck or throat. During palpitations, the heart rhythm often changes.
As mentioned, in many cases heart palpitations are harmless and do not require treatment. Nevertheless, they can sometimes indicate an underlying condition, so it is important to understand possible causes and pay attention to accompanying symptoms.
Heart palpitations can arise from various factors ranging from lifestyle and emotional state to certain medical conditions or medications. Studies show that approximately 16% of doctor visits are related to heart palpitations. They are also one of the most common reasons people consult a cardiologist.
Common lifestyle-related causes:
excessive caffeine or alcohol intake;
smoking;
lack of sleep;
dehydration;
intense physical or emotional exhaustion.
Emotional and psychological factors:
Stress, anxiety, fear, panic attacks, shock, or strong emotions can directly affect heart rhythm and trigger palpitations.
Medications and other substances:
It has been confirmed that recreational drugs and certain medications—especially cold and cough medicines, decongestants, and some asthma inhalers—can provoke heart palpitations.
Heart conditions:
Palpitations may be associated with arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythm), heart valve disorders, or conditions such as congestive heart failure.
Other medical conditions:
Palpitations can also be caused by hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), high body temperature, sleep apnea, electrolyte imbalances, low oxygen or elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood, significant blood loss, anemia, hypoglycemia, and other conditions.
If heart palpitations occur infrequently and pass quickly, urgent medical care is usually not necessary. However, seek medical attention immediately if:
you have been diagnosed with heart disease;
palpitations occur frequently or become more intense;
they are accompanied by dizziness, weakness, fainting, loss of consciousness, or confusion;
shortness of breath or excessive sweating occurs;
you feel pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest;
pain radiates to the arms, neck, jaw, or upper back;
your resting heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute.
Such symptoms may indicate a more serious heart or circulatory system problem.
Diagnosis can be challenging, especially if palpitations do not occur during a doctor’s visit. Common diagnostic tests include:
blood tests (to assess hormone levels and electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium);
urine tests;
electrocardiogram (ECG);
exercise stress tests;
echocardiography;
coronary angiography or other instrumental investigations.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If no medical cause is identified, treatment is often unnecessary, but symptoms can be reduced through lifestyle changes.
Stress management: Regular physical activity, breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and tai chi can help reduce the impact of nervous tension on the heart.
Limiting stimulants: It is recommended to reduce caffeine intake, avoid energy drinks, and consult a doctor about the cardiac effects of any medications being taken.
Dietary monitoring: Stable blood sugar levels are important for heart rhythm—simple carbohydrates should be replaced with complex ones.
Smoking cessation: Research shows that smoking increases the risk of atrial fibrillation, one of the most common forms of arrhythmia.
Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It plays an important role in blood pressure regulation, glucose metabolism, and cardiovascular function. Due to insufficient magnesium intake, deficiency is commonly observed in Western countries and is associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
Magnesium deficiency is often accompanied by potassium deficiency, as these electrolytes are closely interrelated. A lack of magnesium may manifest as muscle cramps, mental health disturbances, elevated blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.
Potassium is another essential electrolyte required for proper heart rhythm, blood pressure regulation, and muscle and nervous system function. Since the body does not produce potassium on its own, it must be obtained through food or supplements. Both potassium deficiency and excess can cause serious health problems.
Symptoms of potassium deficiency include irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, frequent urination, and high blood pressure. Long-term imbalance can have significant consequences for the cardiovascular system.
Because deficiencies in magnesium and potassium can directly affect heart rhythm, muscle function, and overall well-being, it is important to ensure adequate intake of these minerals. Unfortunately, this is not always achievable through daily diet alone—especially during periods of increased physical or emotional stress, intensive exercise, or poor dietary habits.
In such cases, complex mineral supplements that help maintain electrolyte balance may be useful. One option is Basica Sport 660 g, designed to compensate for mineral losses during physical activity and support acid–base balance. The minerals it contains, including magnesium and potassium, contribute to normal muscle function, nervous system function, and maintenance of normal heart rhythm.
👉 More information about Basica Sport 660 g:
https://www.bonum.lt/basica-sport-660-g-en
In addition, comprehensive vitamin and mineral combinations may support overall vitality and well-being. Omnival Vital is a balanced multivitamin and mineral complex formulated to support energy metabolism, immune function, and overall body balance—particularly beneficial for people experiencing fatigue, stress, or increased cardiac load.
👉 Find Omnival Vital here:
https://www.bonum.lt/omnival-vital-n30-orthomolecular-2oh-powder-capsule
It is important to emphasize that dietary supplements do not replace a balanced diet or doctor-prescribed treatment, but they can be a useful part of a daily routine to help maintain optimal mineral balance, especially during periods of increased physiological demand.
https://openheart.bmj.com/content/5/2/e000775
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-deficiency-symptoms
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/potassium-deficiency-symptoms
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-Consumer/
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-Consumer/
