What if you feel dizzy and your heart skips beats?

If you experience dizziness and heart palpitations (skipping heartbeats), it's crucial to take these symptoms seriously and seek medical attention. These symptoms could indicate an underlying medical condition that requires evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Here are some possible causes of dizziness and heart palpitations:

1. Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can decrease blood volume and affect your heart rate, leading to feelings of dizziness and irregular heartbeats.

2. Anemia: Lack of sufficient red blood cells can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood. This can cause weakness, fatigue, and symptoms like dizziness and heart palpitations.

3. Electrolyte Imbalances: Abnormal levels of potassium, magnesium, and calcium in your bloodstream can affect your heart rate and electrical activity, leading to dizziness and palpitations.

4. Cardiac Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia can cause a rapid or irregular heart rate, dizziness, and lightheadedness.

5. Medications: Certain medications, like stimulants or thyroid medications, may have side effects that can affect your heart rate and contribute to dizziness.

6. Hyperthyroidism: Overactivity of the thyroid gland can cause a fast heart rate (tachycardia), resulting in feelings of dizziness and heart palpitations.

7. Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can trigger dizziness, lightheadedness, and cause your heart rate to increase in an attempt to compensate for the reduced glucose levels.

8. Inner Ear Problems: Vestibular disorders involving the inner ear and balance system can cause dizziness, vertigo, and may be accompanied by abnormal heart sensations.

If you experience frequent or persistent dizziness and heart palpitations, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. During your medical evaluation, the doctor may recommend tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess your heart rate and rhythm or blood tests to check for underlying medical conditions.

For immediate assistance in case of severe dizziness or chest pain, seek emergency medical care or call your local emergency number.