Cardiology, by video or in person
Heart Palpitations
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Heart Palpitations
- A pounding, fluttering or racing heartbeat
- Skipped or extra beats
- A heartbeat that feels irregular
- Feeling the heartbeat in the throat or neck
- Palpitations brought on by exercise, stress, caffeine or alcohol
Palpitations are when you become aware of your own heartbeat: pounding, fluttering, racing or skipping a beat. They are common and usually harmless, often brought on by stress or anxiety, hard exercise, poor sleep, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, some medicines, pregnancy or the menopause. They can also come from conditions that need treating, such as anaemia, an overactive thyroid, or a heart rhythm problem such as atrial fibrillation, which raises the risk of stroke. The key test is an ECG, ideally recorded while the palpitations are happening.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A pounding, fluttering or racing heartbeat
- Skipped or extra beats
- A heartbeat that feels irregular
- Feeling the heartbeat in the throat or neck
- Palpitations brought on by exercise, stress, caffeine or alcohol
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital emergency department now, and do not drive yourself, if palpitations do not stop, or come with chest pain, breathlessness, feeling faint or fainting. See a doctor if palpitations keep coming back or are getting more frequent, last more than a few minutes, or if you have a heart condition or a family history of heart problems. A doctor can go through your symptoms by video and arrange an ECG and blood tests.
Treatment options
- An ECG, and a heart monitor worn for a day or more if the palpitations come and go
- Blood tests for anaemia, thyroid function and salts such as potassium
- Cutting down caffeine, alcohol and smoking, and better sleep
- Treatment of the cause, such as iron for anaemia or treatment for an overactive thyroid
- Medicine to control a heart rhythm problem, and a blood thinner for atrial fibrillation when the stroke risk is raised
- A cardiologist's review for an abnormal ECG, fainting or a heart structure problem
Common Questions
Are palpitations a sign of a heart attack?
Usually not. Most palpitations come from a normal heart reacting to stress, caffeine or exertion. Palpitations with chest pain, breathlessness or fainting are different: go to a hospital now.
Can anxiety cause palpitations?
Yes, and it is one of the commonest causes. A doctor will still check for anaemia, thyroid problems and a rhythm problem before putting palpitations down to anxiety.
They stop before I can get an ECG. What should I do?
Note when they happen, how long they last, and whether the beat feels regular or irregular, and check your pulse if you can. A doctor can arrange a monitor you wear at home to catch them.
Can a doctor assess palpitations by video?
A doctor can take the history by video, look for the danger signs, and arrange an ECG and blood tests. Palpitations that are happening now with chest pain, breathlessness or faintness need a hospital, not a call.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified cardiology specialist near you.
Cardiology in Lagos →Cardiology in Abuja →Cardiology in Port Harcourt →Cardiology in Jos →Cardiology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Heart palpitations. NHS. Patient information.
- Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmia). NHS. Patient information.
- Atrial fibrillation: diagnosis and management (NG196). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 29 October 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.