“Occasionally I feel my heart skipping. Should I be concerned?”

Occasional “skipped beats” are common. Others terms you may have heard are “early beats”, “premature beats,” and “butterflies in the chest.” Single premature beats by themselves are usually benign. They usually do not require treatment. If you experience a racing or rapid heart rate, lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting, you should see your doctor.

All irregularities of the heart should be discussed with your doctor. He may order further testing to determine what the irregularity is and what is causing it. These tests include a 24 hour holter monitor or an event monitor. The event monitor is worn for a month, and the patient can push a button to start the recording when symptoms start. After the recording is completed, the patient can call an “800” number to send in the transmission. He may also order a stress test and echocardiogram. These tests can help him determine the severity of the arrhythmia. He may also refer you to a cardiologist or electrophysiologist for further consultation.

Caffeine can make the irregularity worse. The most common source of caffeine is coffee. Caffeine is also found in chocolate and some soda pop. Cold tabs that contain a decongestant can also cause these skipped beats to be more frequent. If you have palpitations, you will be advised to avoid these. Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium) can also make palpations worse.

Here are some types of arrhythmias: atrial fibrillation, re-entry tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Once your doctor has determined the type of arrhythmia you have, he can establish a plan of care. Some arrhythmias may not need immediate treatment. Others may need medication. Other recommendations may include an ablation to “burn” the origin of tachycardia or implant a defibrillator (ICD).

So, if you are experiencing skipped beats or palpitations, see your doctor.