Heart Rhythm Problems: Symptoms

Heart rhythm problems, called arrhythmias, can cause a few types of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include:

• Palpitations. Having palpitations means that you are unusually aware of your heartbeat. Some people describe them as:
  • A "fluttering" in their chest.
  • A "skipped beat."
  • A "pounding sensation."
  • A feeling that the heart is "jumping out of my chest."
• Lightheadedness. If you have an arrhythmia that causes your heart to beat too fast or too slow, you may feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Fainting (syncope). Syncope (say "SING-kuh-pee") is a sudden loss of consciousness that doesn't last long. It may be the first sign that you have an arrhythmia.
• Shortness of breath. Feeling short of breath (dyspnea) often happens during arrhythmias. This symptom can be hard for people to describe. It may be referred to as:
  • Feeling short of breath.
  • Feeling tightness in the chest.
  • Being winded.
  • Feeling tired from walking.