A suddenly noticeable heartbeat can be frightening.
You may feel:
your heart pounding
fluttering
an occasional skipped beat
a brief racing sensation
Some women experience these sensations during the menopausal transition.
But this is one symptom where an important principle applies:
Do not automatically assume it is menopause.
Why might menopause contribute?
Changing hormone patterns can affect the nervous system and the body’s stress response.
Poor sleep, anxiety, hot flushes and stimulants such as caffeine can also make the heartbeat feel more noticeable.
A hot flush itself may sometimes be accompanied by an increased awareness of the heart.
Look at possible triggers
It can be useful to note whether palpitations follow:
coffee or strong tea
energy drinks
alcohol
poor sleep
a stressful event
a hot flush
That information may also be useful if you discuss the symptoms with your doctor.
When should you seek medical advice?
New or unexplained palpitations should be assessed, particularly if they:
happen frequently
last for a significant period
are becoming worse
occur with chest pain
occur with breathlessness
cause faintness or loss of consciousness