Sensation that heart is beating irregularly, or faster or more forcefully than it should, given the level of activity demanded of it; may be a symptom of heart disease (see Arrhythmias, Atherosclerosis), of an overactive thyroid gland (see Thyroid Problems), or of food Allergy; a high Fever can also disturb heartbeat. Palpitations brought on by Anxiety or over-consumption of caffeine and nicotine are nothing to worry about unless a heart condition already exists.
If palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, difficult breathing, Dizziness, sweating, or Fainting, consult your doctor if there is no improvement in 2 hours and select a remedy from the list below. medical doctor may prescribe beta blockers or anti-arrhythmia drugs, depending on underlying problem. Where anxiety is a major factor, constitutional treatment is recommended.
Specific remedies to be taken every 5 minutes for up to 6 doses as soon as palpitations come on
- Palpitations after overindulgence in food or alcohol, or after prolonged expenditure of nervous energy, feeling chilly and irritable Nux 30c
- Violent palpitations, made worse by lying on left side, and distinctly worse just before a period, dizziness, shortness of breath, flatulence Cactus 30c
- Fainting, constricted feeling in chest, anxiety, especially during menopause Lachesis 30c
- Palpitations brought on by hysteria or exposure to cold, trembling heart, weak pulse, fainting Moschus 30c
- Palpitations seem to shake entire body, constricted feeling in chest, heat and sympathy make discomfort worse Natrum mur. 30c
- Palpitations brought on by heat or rich, fatty foods, general weakness Pulsatilla 30c
- Breath smells foul, person thirsty for drinks of hot water, which seem to have a calming effect on heart Spigelia 30c
- Palpitations begin with feeling that heart has stopped, then person feels that slightest movement might make heart stop Digitalis 30c
- Palpitations come on suddenly, especially after a shock, fear of dying Aconite 30c
Self-help: See general advice given under Atherosclerosis. Stop smoking; reduce or stop caffeine-containing drinks. |
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