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  |  General Health  |  Diseases and conditions  |  Attack of palpitations
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Attack of palpitations

by Dr. Sarah Brewer

question
Lately I have been having some kind of panic attack. It usually occurs when I am getting ready in the mornings to go out. I suddenly can't breathe properly and feel light headed. My heart beats so fast I can see my chest moving. I'm left feeling shaky and it takes me a while to recover from the attack, although the attack only usually lasts around 5 minutes. What am I experiencing?

answer
This sounds like an attack of palpitations. Palpitations are an awareness of an abnormally fast or irregular heartbeat. If they are accompanied by shortness of breath, chest discomfort, feeling faint or passing out, palpitations could be due to an underlying heart disorder and you should seek urgent medical advice. If your doctor finds nothing abnormal to account for your palpitations, try:

  • switching to decaffeinated drinks
  • stopping smoking (if you do)
  • cutting back or avoiding alcohol
  • learning relaxation techniques such as meditation to reduce stress
  • inhaling a calming aromatherapy essential oil, such as camomile, lavender or neroli

Although palpitations can be due to anxiety and panic attacks, you should not assume this. Your GP needs to arrange a full check up before making the diagnosis for you.
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