Heart palpitations are common conditions that can be caused by a variety of factors. While conventional medicine often treats these conditions with medications or surgery, functional medicine takes a holistic approach to identify and address the underlying causes of these conditions. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of heart palpitations from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of heart palpitations

The symptoms of heart palpitations can include:

• Irregular heartbeat or heart rhythm.
  
• Rapid heartbeat.
  
• Skipping or fluttering heartbeat.
  
• Chest pain or discomfort.
  
• Shortness of breath.

Causes of heart palpitations

The causes of heart palpitations can vary from person to person, and can be influenced by a number of factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, environmental toxins, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Some common triggers include:

• Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation can damage the heart and lead to heart palpitations.
  
• Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients such as magnesium and potassium can affect heart function and lead to heart palpitations.
  
• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid dysfunction or menopause, can affect heart function and lead to heart palpitations.
  
• Medications: Certain medications, such as beta blockers and some antidepressants, can cause heart palpitations as a side effect.
  
• Stress: Chronic stress can affect heart function and lead to heart palpitations.
  

Treatments for heart palpitations

Functional medicine approaches to treating heart palpitations involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Some common treatments include:

• Nutritional supplements: Supplements such as magnesium and potassium can help address nutrient deficiencies and support heart function.
  
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress-reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga can help improve overall health and support heart function.
  
• Environmental modifications: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, and using natural cleaning products can help prevent heart damage and support heart health.
  
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help improve circulation and support heart health.
  
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms or prevent further heart damage.
  

Tests for heart palpitations

• Food intolerances
• Histamine intolerance
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Neurotransmitters: Basic, Plus
• Organic acids

In conclusion, heart palpitations can be caused by a variety of factors, and functional medicine approaches to treatment involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes to provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. By addressing the root causes of heart palpitations, individuals can maintain and improve their heart health and quality of life.