Lucy Burroughs answered
There are a lot of things that can make you feel like your heart is flip-flopping in your chest – most of them are totally safe, though, so don’t worry!
Anxiety
Heart palpitations are a common symptom of an anxiety attack. If the flip-flopping sensation is accompanied by sweaty palms, shortness of breath, faintness and feelings of panic, you might be suffering from an anxiety attack.
Stimulants
Caffeine can cause heart palpitations – an extra shot in your coffee could be the culprit!
Other stimulants that can cause heart palpitations include nicotine, amphetamines, ephedrine, and illegal drugs that are classed as “uppers” (e.g. Speed, ecstasy and cocaine).
Adrenaline
Adrenaline is a natural chemical that your body releases in response to fear, excitement and shock. Adrenaline is also released when you exercise, and causes your heart to beat faster and more noticeably.
Female hormones
Periods, pregnancy and the menopause can all cause heart palpitations – sorry girls!
Medical conditions
The following conditions can cause your heart to feel like it’s flip-flopping:
Love!
If your heart started flip-flopping when you were thinking of that special someone, then congratulations - you’re probably in love!
Anxiety
Heart palpitations are a common symptom of an anxiety attack. If the flip-flopping sensation is accompanied by sweaty palms, shortness of breath, faintness and feelings of panic, you might be suffering from an anxiety attack.
Stimulants
Caffeine can cause heart palpitations – an extra shot in your coffee could be the culprit!
Other stimulants that can cause heart palpitations include nicotine, amphetamines, ephedrine, and illegal drugs that are classed as “uppers” (e.g. Speed, ecstasy and cocaine).
Adrenaline
Adrenaline is a natural chemical that your body releases in response to fear, excitement and shock. Adrenaline is also released when you exercise, and causes your heart to beat faster and more noticeably.
Female hormones
Periods, pregnancy and the menopause can all cause heart palpitations – sorry girls!
Medical conditions
The following conditions can cause your heart to feel like it’s flip-flopping:
- An overactive thyroid
- Anemia
- Fever
- Low blood sugar
- Low blood pressure
- Dehydration
- A heart problem
Love!
If your heart started flip-flopping when you were thinking of that special someone, then congratulations - you’re probably in love!
