Palpitations Differential Diagnosis
The differential diagnosis for palpitations can be organized into the following categories:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Anxiety or Stress: This is often the most common cause of palpitations, as anxiety and stress can stimulate the heart and lead to an awareness of heartbeats.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Atrial Fibrillation: A common arrhythmia that can cause palpitations, especially in older adults or those with underlying heart disease.
- Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs) or Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs): These are common benign arrhythmias that can cause palpitations.
- Mitral Valve Prolapse: A condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, which can lead to palpitations.
- Thyroid Dysfunction: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause palpitations.
- Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance: Dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or magnesium, can lead to palpitations.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ventricular Tachycardia: A life-threatening arrhythmia that requires immediate medical attention.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): A type of arrhythmia that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Cardiac Tamponade: A condition where fluid accumulates in the sac surrounding the heart, which can lead to palpitations and cardiac arrest.
- Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot in the lungs that can cause palpitations, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A rare genetic disorder that can cause palpitations and sudden cardiac death.
- Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy: A rare genetic disorder that can cause palpitations and sudden cardiac death.
- Long QT Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that can cause palpitations and sudden cardiac death.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause palpitations, hypertension, and other symptoms.