Heart palpitations are rapid, thumping or fluttering feelings that people experience in their chest. They may be on the left-hand side or the middle of the chest. Normally we are not aware of our heart beating. The term 'palpitations' is used when we are aware of our heart beating. Some people say heart palpitations feel like their heart is racing; others say their chest hurts, thumps or flutters or like their heart is skipping a beat. Usually this sensation is caused by a heart rate that is faster than usual for your age, gender and level of fitness.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/heart-health/palpitations-leaflet