What are some general causes of arrhythmias and palpitations?
• They may not be associated with any significant abnormality • Stress is not an uncommon associated condition. This may be subtle and overlooked. Sometimes however, patients with serious arrhythmias convince themselves “it’s just stress” when in fact there is in fact another more important condition. • Lack of sleep. • It is very common for stimulants to cause palpitations, even those stimulants which are socially acceptable such as caffeine which is found in coffee, tea (hot or iced), and many carbonated beverages. Caffeine is also found in over-the-counter medications including some pain relievers and agents sold to prevent drowsiness. • Nicotine and other stimulants and toxins in cigarettes, cigars, snuff and other tobacco products. • Chocolate contains significant amounts of stimulants. • Alcohol can be associated with palpitations and arrhythmias, some of them serious. • Over the counter medications, particularly those containing “decongestants”. • Medical conditions such as incr
