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Heart Rhythm Disorders (cont.)

When to Seek Medical Care

Most people have noticed their heart racing, a fluttering in the chest, or a sensation that the heart skipped a beat. If this happens once, or infrequently, with no other symptoms, it is usually not serious. However, any questions or concerns should be discussed with a health care provider. The health care provider should also be notified if a recommended treatment does not alleviate the symptoms.

More serious symptoms should be evaluated immediately at the nearest hospital emergency department. These symptoms include:

  • Any unexplained shortness of breath


  • Light-headedness or feeling faint


  • Feeling that the heart is beating too slowly or too quickly


  • Chest pain with any of these symptoms
People experiencing these symptoms should not drive to the emergency department. They should call 911 for emergency medical transport.



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