Who Gets Heart Palpitations Most Often And Why?

 

Heart palpitations are one of the most common symptoms reported to GPs and cardiologists. While they can affect anyone, some groups are far more likely to experience them than others.

Understanding who is most affected can provide valuable clues about the underlying cause.

How Does Age Affect Palpitations?

Age is one of the biggest factors influencing both the frequency and cause of palpitations.

In younger adults, palpitations are often linked to lifestyle and stress-related factors, including:

  • Anxiety

  • Caffeine

  • Alcohol

  • Sleep deprivation

  • Panic attacks

In older adults, clinicians are more likely to investigate for:

  • Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

  • Heart valve disease

  • High blood pressure

  • Structural heart changes

Why Do Women Experience More Palpitations?

Women are one of the most commonly affected groups.

Hormonal changes throughout life can influence heart rhythm, particularly during:

  • Menstruation

  • Pregnancy

  • Perimenopause

  • Menopause

Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone can make the heart more sensitive to premature beats and racing heart sensations.

What Other Groups Are Commonly Affected?

Several other groups frequently report palpitations:

  • People with anxiety disorders

  • Endurance athletes

  • Individuals with high caffeine intake

  • People experiencing chronic stress

Athletes are a particularly interesting group because their slower resting heart rates can make ectopic beats more noticeable during rest.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Although most palpitations are harmless, medical assessment is recommended if symptoms:

  • Become frequent

  • Cause dizziness

  • Trigger fainting

  • Occur with chest pain

  • Cause significant breathlessness

The Bottom Line

Palpitations are most commonly reported by young adults, women and older adults. However, the underlying cause often differs between groups. Understanding those differences can help provide reassurance and ensure that potentially serious conditions are identified early.

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