Many people associate heart palpitations the sudden feeling that your heart is racing, pounding, or skipping beats with drinking too much coffee. As stated in the media report pafikutaikab.org while caffeine can indeed trigger this sensation, doctors say it’s far from the only cause.
Heart palpitations can stem from a range of physical and emotional factors, many of which are harmless but occasionally signal something more serious.
What Are Heart Palpitations?
Heart palpitations occur when you become unusually aware of your heartbeat. You might feel it beating too fast, too hard, or irregularly sometimes in your chest, throat, or neck.
According to Dr. Andika Mahendra, a cardiologist at RSUP Persahabatan Jakarta, most palpitations are temporary and benign, especially if they occur after stress, lack of sleep, or certain stimulants.
“However, if palpitations are frequent, accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, that’s a sign to get checked immediately,” he warned.
1. Stress and Anxiety
Stress is one of the most common but overlooked causes of palpitations. When you’re anxious, the body releases adrenaline, a hormone that increases heart rate and blood pressure.
“Your heart is just responding to your body’s stress signal,” Dr. Andika explained. “It doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with your heart.”
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or short walks can help restore calm and regulate your heartbeat naturally.
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2. Lack of Sleep
Sleep deprivation disrupts your body’s natural rhythm and can overstimulate the nervous system. When you’re exhausted, your heart may beat faster than usual to compensate for energy loss.
Experts recommend maintaining 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night to help stabilize your cardiovascular function.
3. Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance
Your heart relies on minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium to maintain a steady rhythm. When dehydration or excessive sweating lowers these electrolyte levels, palpitations can occur.
“People often forget that hydration isn’t just about water,” said Dr. Andika. “Electrolyte balance is equally important, especially after intense exercise or illness.”
Consuming fruits like bananas, oranges, and coconut water can help replenish electrolytes naturally.
4. Hormonal Changes
Fluctuating hormones — particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause — can trigger temporary heart palpitations. Estrogen levels affect how the heart responds to adrenaline, making women more prone to noticing heartbeat irregularities.
“These changes are usually harmless,” Dr. Andika said, “but they should be monitored if they come with fainting or chest discomfort.”
5. Certain Medications and Supplements
Some prescription drugs, such as asthma inhalers, thyroid medication, and decongestants, can elevate heart rate as a side effect. Even herbal supplements or energy drinks can have similar effects.
“Always read labels carefully and consult your doctor before combining supplements with medication,” Dr. Andika advised.
When to See a Doctor
Occasional palpitations are normal, but if they persist or occur alongside chest pain, fainting, or severe fatigue, they could indicate an underlying heart rhythm disorder such as arrhythmia or atrial fibrillation.
A medical evaluation — including an ECG or Holter monitor test — can determine whether the cause is harmless or requires treatment.
The Bottom Line
Caffeine may get the blame, but your morning coffee isn’t always the culprit behind a racing heart. Lifestyle factors, stress, and hormonal shifts often play a bigger role.
As Dr. Andika concluded, “Listening to your body is the first step but don’t jump to conclusions. If your heart feels off, let your doctor, not Google, make the diagnosis.”
Source: Pafikutaikab
