Palpitations are the feeling that your heart is beating fast, hard or irregularly. Sometimes it’s like a flutter, sometimes like a thump. Occasional brief palpitations can be harmless, especially after caffeine, stress, or strong emotions.

You might notice them when lying quietly, after climbing stairs, or during anxiety. If they pass quickly and you feel otherwise fine, they may not be serious. Still, it’s good to mention them at your next check-up.

Red flags include palpitations combined with chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or a feeling of impending collapse. Very prolonged episodes, or a resting heart that suddenly races for no obvious reason, should be assessed promptly.

Keeping a simple log – when palpitations happen, how long they last, what you were doing – helps your doctor. Avoid self-diagnosing from internet searches; heart rhythm issues range from harmless to serious, and only proper tests can tell which is which.

Your heartbeat is worth listening to – but always in partnership with a healthcare professional.