Palpitations

Heart Palpitations – Private Assessment & Treatment in London

What Are Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are sensations where you feel like your heart is racing, fluttering, skipping beats, or beating harder than usual. While palpitations are often harmless, they can also be a sign of an underlying heart rhythm problem—especially if they occur frequently, last for a long time, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or chest discomfort.

At London Heart Group, our experienced private cardiologists in Harley Street, London, provide fast, expert assessment of palpitations, using the latest diagnostic tools to identify any cardiac causes and guide effective treatment.

Common Symptoms of Palpitations

Patients often describe palpitations as:

  • A pounding, racing, or fluttering heartbeat

  • Feeling like your heart is skipping a beat or beating irregularly

  • Awareness of your heartbeat, even at rest

  • Episodes triggered by stress, exercise, caffeine, or alcohol

Palpitations may be brief and infrequent—or they may occur regularly and interfere with daily life. While many are benign, some are linked to conditions like atrial fibrillation, ectopic beats, or supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

What Causes Palpitations?

Palpitations can have many different causes—some cardiac and some non-cardiac. Common causes include:

Heart-related causes:

Non-cardiac causes:

  • Stress or anxiety

  • Caffeine or energy drinks

  • Alcohol or recreational drugs

  • Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)

  • Hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy or menopause)

  • Certain medications

Understanding the root cause is essential to rule out serious conditions and provide peace of mind or appropriate treatment.

How Are Palpitations Diagnosed?

At London Heart Group, we offer same-day access to advanced diagnostic testing for palpitations. Your cardiologist will begin with a detailed history and physical examination, followed by tailored investigations which may include:

  • 12-lead ECG – to assess your heart rhythm

  • 24- or 72-hour Holter monitor – continuous rhythm tracking

  • Event recorder or implantable loop recorder – for intermittent palpitations

  • Echocardiogram – ultrasound to examine heart structure

  • Blood tests – including thyroid function and electrolyte levels

Our state-of-the-art clinic in Harley Street, Central London, provides fast and accurate testing to help determine if your palpitations are benign or linked to a more serious heart rhythm condition.

How Are Palpitations Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your palpitations. For benign or lifestyle-related cases, no treatment may be needed beyond reassurance and lifestyle advice. If a heart rhythm disorder is identified, management options include:

  • Lifestyle modifications – limiting caffeine, alcohol, and stress

  • Medication – to manage rhythm or reduce triggers

  • Catheter ablation – a minimally invasive procedure to treat abnormal electrical pathways

  • Treatment of underlying conditions – such as thyroid problems or anxiety

Our consultants will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your symptoms, test results, and overall health.

Book a Private Consultation for Palpitations in London

If you're experiencing heart palpitations, don't ignore your symptoms. At London Heart Group, our leading private cardiologists are here to provide clarity, reassurance, and expert care.

Call today or book online to schedule your private heart rhythm consultation in Harley Street, London.