When assessing a new patient, and having established the presenting complaint, questions relating to the well-being of the heart are commonly asked. This helps the osteopath determine whether the patient is suitable for treatment. Patients will often describe palpitations as being the sole cardiovascular problem they incur.
A palpitation is an abnormality of the heartbeat that causes a conscious awareness of its beating. This abnormality can be a heartbeat that is too slow, too fast or irregular. A palpitation can also refer to the sensation of this abnormality, and can be caused by (but should not be confused with) an ectopic beat. This is a disturbance of the cardiac rhythm, often described by patients as a skipped heartbeat. Such disturbance of the electrical conduction of the heart can be caused by stress or debility, and can also be triggered by consumption of alcohol, chocolate and strong cheeses.
In order to differentiate a true palpitation from a normal awareness of the heartbeat, it is important to understand that the former interrupts one's thought process, whereas the latter is caused by focussing on the heartbeat. Palpitations can be brought on by overexertion, adrenaline, alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, cocaine, amphetamines, disease (for example hyperthyroidism), or as a symptom of a panic disorder. Nearly everyone will experience a palpitation, but when this becomes a frequent occurrence, the problem is more serious. They are not only associated with heart problems, but with anaemia and thyroid malfunctions.
The length of an attack can vary from a few seconds to a few hours, and frequency from infrequent to more than daily. Other symptoms include sweating, feeling faint, frequent headaches, chest pain and dizziness. If these occur, the problem should be investigated. This, however, can prove to be difficult via routine medical examination or ECG, as it is difficult to arrange having the symptoms whilst being with the clinician.
If you experience persistent palpitations, please speak to your GP. We are happy to discuss whether osteopathic assessment may be appropriate alongside that.