Some people may be more likely than others to have palpitations. People at increased risk include those who: Have anxiety or panic attacks, or people who are highly stressed Take certain medicines or stimulants Have certain medical conditions that arent related to heart problems, such as an overactive thyroid Have certain heart problems, such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), a previous heart attack, heart failure, heart valve disease, or heart muscle disease Women who are pregnant, menstruating, or perimenopausal also may be at higher risk for palpitations because of hormonal changes. Some palpitations that occur during pregnancy may be due to anemia. 
Who is at risk for Heart Palpitations? ?