Nighttime Palpitations: Expert Warns of Critical Symptoms and Causes

Waking up with heart palpitations during the night doesn't always signal a heart condition, according to Dr. Ahmad Huraıbat from İAÜ VM Medical Park Florya Hospital. He explained that a range of factors, from daily habits and hormonal imbalances to anemia and heart rhythm disorders, can cause palpitations. Dr. Huraıbat stressed that medical evaluation is essential if palpitations recur or appear alongside symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting.

"Not every palpitation is heart disease," Dr. Huraıbat stated, emphasizing that lifestyle choices such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, excessive caffeine intake, and alcohol can increase heart rate and induce the sensation of palpitations. Anemia, an overactive thyroid gland, and various heart rhythm irregularities also contribute to the issue. He noted the importance of understanding when and under what circumstances the palpitations occur.

Dr. Huraıbat highlighted that caffeine consumption, particularly in the evening from coffee, energy drinks, or other sources, can trigger palpitations in some individuals. Insufficient sleep and high levels of anxiety can also accelerate heart rate. Therefore, he advised individuals experiencing palpitations to pay attention to their sleep patterns and limit evening caffeine intake.

When palpitations are accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, fainting, or a feeling of impending faintness, Dr. Huraıbat urged greater caution and immediate medical assessment. He also mentioned that certain rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardias, and premature heartbeats, can cause palpitations, and these may become more noticeable during rest or at night. Sleep apnea and hormonal imbalances, like an overactive thyroid, can also be underlying causes of palpitations, as they can create stress on the cardiovascular system.