Supraventricular and ventricular tachycardia is thought to result in palpitations with abrupt onset and abrupt termination. In patients who can terminate their palpitations with a Valsalva maneuver, this is thought to indicate possibly a supraventricular tachycardia. Palpitations associated with chest pain may suggest myocardial ischemia. Lastly, when lightheadedness or syncope accompanies the palpitations, ventricular tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, or other arrhythmias should be considered.The diagnosis is usually not made by a routine medical examination and scheduled electrical tracing of the hearts activity (ECG) because most people cannot arrange to have their symptoms be present while visiting the hospital. Nevertheless, findings such as a heart murmur or an abnormality of the ECG might be indicative of probable diagnosis. In particular, ECG changes that are associated with specific disturbances of the heart rhythm may be noticed; thus physical examination and ECG remain important in the assessment of palpitation. Moreover, a complete physical exam should be performed including vital signs (with orthostatic vital signs), cardiac auscultation, lung auscultation, and examination of extremities. A patient can tap out the rhythm to help demonstrate what they felt previously, if they are not currently experiencing the symptoms.Positive orthostatic vital signs may indicate dehydration or an electrolyte abnormality. A mid-systolic click and heart murmur may indicate mitral valve prolapse. A harsh holo-systolic murmur best heard at the left sternal border which increases with Valsalva may indicate hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. An irregular rhythm indicates atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
Prevalence
Palpitations are a common complaint in the general population, particularly in those affected by structural heart disease. Clinical presentation is divided into four groups: extra-systolic, tachycardic, anxiety-related, and intense. Anxiety-related is the most common. See also
Cardiac dysrhythmia

References
External links

MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, NIH