Are palpitations always dangerous?
Many palpitations are benign. However, some reflect significant arrhythmias. Evaluation helps distinguish harmless extra beats from conditions that need treatment.
Core Cardiology · Columbia, MO
Heart Palpitations Evaluation in Columbia, MO
Feeling your heart skip, race, or flutter can be unsettling. The right evaluation connects symptoms to objective rhythm data so you know what is happening — and what to do.
Overview
Palpitations have many causes: premature beats, AFib, tachycardia, anxiety, caffeine, dehydration, thyroid disease, or medication effects. At PulsePoint Clinic in Columbia, MO, cardiologists listen carefully to your symptom pattern, review triggers, and use ECG and ambulatory monitoring when needed to determine whether reassurance, lifestyle change, or treatment is appropriate.
PulsePoint Clinic serves patients in Columbia, Boone County, Jefferson City, Fulton, Moberly, and communities across Central Missouri.
Common symptoms
- Sensation of skipped or extra heartbeats
- Rapid or pounding heartbeat
- Irregular rhythm noticed by patient or wearable
- Brief dizziness with palpitations
- Chest discomfort associated with fast heart rate
When to see a cardiologist
- Frequent or worsening palpitations
- Palpitations with shortness of breath or chest pain
- Syncope (fainting) or near-fainting
- Wearable alerts for irregular rhythm
- Palpitations in patients with heart disease or risk factors
How PulsePoint treats palpitations
ECG and targeted laboratory evaluation
Holter or event monitor when symptoms are intermittent
Assessment of caffeine, sleep, stress, and medication triggers
Treatment for underlying arrhythmia when confirmed
Clear guidance on symptoms that require urgent care
Frequently asked questions
What is a Holter monitor?
A Holter monitor records your heart rhythm continuously for 24–48 hours (or longer with event monitors) to capture intermittent palpitations.
Can I get rhythm monitoring in Columbia, MO?
Yes. PulsePoint offers ambulatory cardiac monitoring with interpretation by board-certified cardiologists at our Columbia clinic.
Related heart conditions
Hypertension
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, yet it quietly damages the heart, brain, kidneys, and arteries. Physician-led hypertension care helps you understand your numbers and build a plan that works.
Heart Failure
Heart failure means the heart cannot pump effectively — not that it has stopped. With the right plan, many patients live actively and reduce hospitalizations.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder in adults. Clear diagnosis and a thoughtful plan protect both your heart and your brain.
This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or another emergency, call 911.
Your Heart Deserves Exceptional Care.
Let's build your personalized plan for a healthier tomorrow.