An irregular heartbeat can be AFib, but it can also be something less serious. The only way to know is a heart rhythm test read by a doctor. If your pulse feels irregular, or your home blood pressure machine shows an irregular heartbeat warning, it is worth getting checked by a cardiologist or heart rhythm specialist.
What an irregular heartbeat feels like
People describe it many ways. Common descriptions include:
- A flutter or quiver in the chest
- A heart that races, even while sitting still
- A thump, then a pause, like a skipped beat
- A rhythm that feels chaotic or out of step
Some people also feel short of breath, tired or lightheaded. Others feel nothing, and the first clue is a device. FCCI points out that a home blood pressure machine may show evidence of an irregular heartbeat, and that checking your own pulse can reveal it too.
AFib is one cause, not the only one
AFib is the most common rhythm problem of the heart, but it is not the only one. FCCI's electrophysiologists also treat supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), which is a fast rhythm that starts above the heart's lower chambers, and ventricular arrhythmias, which start in the lower chambers. Extra beats that are harmless are also common.
That variety is why guessing does not work. Two people with the same feeling can have very different rhythms, and the right treatment depends on which rhythm it is.
How doctors find the answer
A heart rhythm visit usually starts with questions. When does it happen? How long does it last? What were you doing? Then comes testing. FCCI's cardiac testing team works with tools such as:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): a quick snapshot of your heart's electrical activity
- Holter monitor: a small recorder you wear to capture your rhythm over a longer stretch
- Event recorder: a monitor that records when symptoms happen
- Echocardiogram: an ultrasound picture of your heart's structure and movement
Your doctor decides which of these you need. The goal is to catch the rhythm on record while it is happening.
How to check your pulse
Place two fingers on the inside of your wrist, below the thumb, or on the side of your neck. Count the beats for 30 seconds and notice whether they come at a steady pace or bounce around. Write down what you find, along with the time and what you were doing. That kind of log is very helpful at your appointment.
When it can't wait
Call 911 if an irregular heartbeat comes with chest pain, fainting or near fainting, severe shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke such as face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech. These need emergency care, not an office visit.
For symptoms that are new but not an emergency, FCCI asks patients to call the office during business hours, 8AM to 5PM, so the team can help you get seen.
Small things that can trigger symptoms
Many people notice their palpitations more at certain times, such as late at night, after a big meal, after caffeine or alcohol, during stress, or after poor sleep. Noticing these patterns does not tell you which rhythm you have, but it gives your doctor useful clues. Keep a few weeks of notes if you can, and bring them to your visit.
Getting care at FCCI
Checking an irregular heartbeat does not mean a long drive. FCCI sees rhythm patients across the Southside, Westside, Northside, University Blvd and Mandarin/Fruit Cove, plus Orange Park, Palatka and Waycross, GA, and the front desk can check your insurance before the visit.
Only a proper heart test can say whether your skipped or racing beats are AFib, so treat this page as background reading.
Noticed your pulse acting up? The FCCI team answers at 904.493.3333 Monday to Friday, 8AM to 5PM. You can also send your name and phone through the request form and they will call you.
