Heart Palpitations During Perimenopause: When Should You Seek Help?

Palpitations are a recognised menopause symptom, but a racing, pounding, fluttering or irregular-feeling heartbeat can have many causes. New or persistent palpitations deserve appropriate assessment rather than automatically being attributed to hormones.

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What are palpitations?

Palpitations are an increased awareness of your heartbeat. They may feel fast, pounding, fluttering or as though beats are being skipped. Episodes can occur alongside hot flushes or anxiety, but caffeine, alcohol, medicines, thyroid problems, anaemia and heart rhythm problems are among other possible contributors.

When should I arrange medical advice?

Seek medical advice if palpitations keep returning, last longer, are becoming more frequent, or you have a heart condition or other concerns. A clinician may need to consider causes unrelated to menopause.

When is it urgent?

Call 999 or seek emergency help for palpitations accompanied by chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting or loss of consciousness.

What information is useful?

Note when episodes happen, how long they last, possible triggers and associated symptoms. This can help a healthcare professional decide what assessment is appropriate.

Read about hot flushes and anxiety and low mood, or book a private women's health consultation for appropriate support within our service scope.

This article is general information and does not assess cardiac symptoms.