Q. What can I do to get rid of my heart palpitations?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Heart palpitations can be incredibly uncomfortable and unsettling, but there are steps you can take to reduce your symptoms. Palpitations occur when the heart beats abnormally quickly or irregularly, often due to stress or anxiety.
The first thing you should do if you are experiencing palpitations is to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. A physician can help determine the cause of your palpitations and assess any underlying medical conditions that may need treatment.
Once the cause is determined, there are several lifestyle changes that may help reduce heart palpitations:
Eat a healthy diet full of nutrient-dense foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins like fish and poultry instead of processed items or those high in sodium content.
Exercise regularly; getting regular exercise helps to keep your body fit while releasing endorphins which positively impact moods, reduce stress levels, and improve overall health.
Reduce caffeine intake by limiting caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks etc.; caffeine acts like a stimulant on the nervous system causing it to become over-stimulated which then causes irregularities in heartbeat rhythms leading to palpitations.
Limit alcoholic beverages; alcohol can have negative effects on heart rate leading to an increase in incidences of palpitations.
Get adequate sleep; aim for 7-8 hours every night as this will help ensure that your body’s natural processes (including regulation of hormones) remain regulated without being adversely impacted by fatigue or restlessness which could lead to increased irritability or anxiousness resulting in potential episodes of rapid heartbeat rhythm associated with heart palpitation incidents .
Manage stress levels through activities such as yoga/meditation or through talking with a therapist/counselor if needed . Identifying the source(s) causing heightened levels of stress within one’s life & taking active steps towards managing them leads not only better physical wellbeing but also improved mental fitness & clarity along with increased resiliency towards future stressful scenarios/events thus reducing occurrences related directly/indirectly linked towards palpitations incidents . In addition depending upon root cause(have been ruled out by doctor ) , one might try various supplements and herbs including magnesium , omega 3 fatty acids etc after consulting their care provider so they look into research backed evidence before introducing any new substance into their regimen !