KARACHI, Oct 28: Palpitation is an abnormal sensation of pounding or fluttering or simply a sensation of an irregularity in normal rhythm of the heart.

“While some of the causes of palpitation may be potentially dangerous, more often they are not life threatening though still quite anxiety provoking,” said Dr Azam Shafquat, consultant cardiologist at the Aga Khan University Hospital.

Giving a presentation on Palpitation, at a monthly public health awareness programme of the hospital, he said heart has an electrical system that generates signals at regular intervals, giving rise to the normal heartbeat. Abnormality in this electrical system gives rise to palpitations.

In order to determine the exact problem it is imperative that ECG recordings be obtained during the symptoms, Dr Azam said, adding that if a regular ECG could not be done, pocket-sized ECG recording devices are available, which a patient can carry with him.

He explained that, based on the findings of the ECG recordings, the exact diagnosis for the cause of palpitation can be made.

Many patients, he said, just need reassurance while others can have their symptoms treated by simple physical manoeuvres and medicines can be used in others. However, medications are used to suppress the problem, which do not actually cure it. Symptoms can return once medications are stopped, he added.

Moreover, he continued, many medications used for the heart rhythm problems can have serious side effects.

Dr Azam informed that in some patients with palpitation a new therapy — ablation therapy — can be utilized. This involves passing wires from veins in the leg to the heart — somewhat similar to an angiography.

Electrical signals from within the heart are recorded and the area from where the palpitation is originating, is identified. The tip of the wire is applied to this area and heated, thereby permanently destroying the source of the palpitation.

In appropriate cases, this is an extremely effective method of permanently curing the cause of palpitation, he added.—APP