Home remedies for palpitations

Simple steps at home can settle many episodes of palpitations. They do not replace medical care if you have warning signs.

During an episode

• Sit down and rest, and breathe slowly: in for 4 seconds, out for 6
• Drink a glass of water if you may be dehydrated
• Splash cool water on the face
• Vagal manoeuvres may stop some fast regular rhythms. A doctor should show you the safe way to do these. Do not press on the neck or eyes.
• Check your pulse: note if it is regular or irregular, and the rate
• Stop and rest if exercise triggered it

Avoid triggers

• Caffeine, energy drinks and cola
• Alcohol and smoking
• Large heavy meals and very spicy food
• Decongestant and diet medicines
• Lack of sleep and long gaps without food

Habits that help

• Regular sleep and regular meals
• Relaxation, breathing practice and walks
• A symptom diary of times, triggers and duration
• Staying hydrated

Be careful with

Do not use home remedies, herbs or supplements to treat palpitations without checking the cause. Thyroid disease, anaemia and heart rhythm problems need testing.

Call 112 or go to hospital if palpitations come with chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness or confusion.

See a doctor if episodes last more than a few minutes, return often or wake you from sleep.

When to get help

See a doctor if palpitations are new, frequent, last more than a few minutes, or come with dizziness, chest discomfort or breathlessness. An ECG, simple blood tests and a heart rhythm monitor can usually find the cause. Call 112 for chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness.

Remember

Slow breathing, fluids and avoiding triggers help most. Warning signs mean emergency care.