136 FAMILY ILLNESS
Palpitations
Abnormally fast or irregular heartbeats, or palpitations, are often caused by anxiety or by stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine. Palpitations may also occur as a side effect of medication or because of a heart disorder. Call your doctor immediately if palpitations are frequent or persistent or if you have other symptoms.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You may have hyperthyroidism( an overactive thyroid gland) or you might be suffering from anxiety.
START
Do you have any of the following?
Shortness of breath
Chest discomfort
Feeling faint or passing out
None of the above
ACTION
DIAL 911 OR CALL EMS
! You may have a serious arrhythmia( abnormal heart rate or rhythm) due to an underlying heart disorder.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS Your symptoms may be a side effect of the medication.
• Stop taking any overthe-counter medicines but continue to take prescribed medication unless advised to stop by your doctor.
Do you have any of the following?
Weight loss with increased appetite
Feeling on edge
Increased sweating
Bulging eyes
None of the above
Do any of the following apply?
You have had a lot of coffee, tea, or soda
You have been smoking more than usual
You are taking medications
None of the above
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES These symptoms may be due to anxiety.
• Try some relaxation exercises( p. 169).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your symptoms continue for 2 days.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES
• Avoid caffeine and nicotine because these can disturb your heart rhythm.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your symptoms continue for 2 days.
Have you been feeling tense or stressed?
Feeling under stress
No increase in stress
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your palpitations from this chart.