Irregular heartbeat: never ignore these 5 symptoms

Your heart is the ultimate pump, and when it “skips a beat” it’s a sign you need a check-up. A Mediclinic expert identifies symptoms to look out for.

A healthy heart rhythm means all parts of your body are getting the oxygenated blood you need to function, but occasionally a blip may occur. Dr Mohamed Khan, a physician specialising in internal medicine at Mediclinic Newcastle, says this may happen for various reasons. Your first step is always to see your healthcare professional, who will identify the problem and prescribe treatment, he advises.

1. Trouble breathing

Some people might hyperventilate, while others may experience shortness of breath. This could be caused by a heart problem, but it could also be a result of a wide spectrum of  issues, from anxiety to lung disease.

2. Palpitations

This sensation is an awareness of your heartbeat as particularly fast or forceful. “Of course, there are situations when you can expect to be aware of your heartbeat, such as during exercise, pregnancy, or if you’re particularly emotional,” says Dr Khan. “However, if this is sustained throughout the day, it may be a sign of cardiac problems, such as arrhythmia or structural heart issues.”

Also be aware that substances such as caffeine, energy drinks, alcohol, nicotine, and some medicines can cause palpitations. This can also happen if you stop taking prescribed beta-blockers, which slow the heart rate.

3. Swollen feet

Your heart pumps oxygenated blood around your body. If that pump slows for any reason, fluid tends to collect – usually around your feet because of the force of gravity. However, fluid may also cause swelling in your hands, legs, or around the belly. “Fluid collecting in the chest is a sign of pulmonary oedema, which may indicate heart failure,” Dr Khan warns. “You should also see a doctor if you have swelling in both feet, as this indicates the problem isn’t specific to one side of the body.” If the swelling only occurs at certain times, e.g., when you’re menstruating or on an aircraft, don’t worry too much: it’s due to water retention and will resolve itself after a while.

4. Unusual tiredness

A sudden loss of energy may require a trip to the doctor. Dr Khan explains that it’s normal to feel a little fatigued after exertion, but if this feels vastly different to your usual energy levels, it may be because your heart is struggling to circulate the oxygenated blood that keeps you alert and awake.

5. Night time disturbances

Orthopnoea (breathlessness when lying down) and dyspnoea (shortness of breath) are both conditions that arise when your heart is unable to pump blood properly. This results in the accumulation of fluid in your chest while lying down. It may cause a sudden, severe shortness of breath that shocks you out of your sleep.

While many of these health issues may be caused by heart problems, it’s also possible that another organ is at fault. Your Mediclinic healthcare professional will be able to grade the severity of the issue and rule out any other causes.

To find an expert physician or cardiologist nearest to you, click here.