Stimulate the Vagal Nerve
The vagus nerve connects your brain to your heart. When you have heart palpitations, stimulating it can help regulate your heart rate and calm your palpitations. There are several ways to stimulate the vagus nerve on your own, but it is important to discuss this with your doctor first. [5] Here are some ways to stimulate the vagal nerve:
- Take a cold shower or apply something cold to your face for a few seconds. This could be anything from ice wrapped in a washcloth or a splash of cold water.
- Hold your breath and push down like you are having a bowel movement.
- Intentionally cough or gag.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol will not typically trigger heart palpitations since it is not a stimulant, but avoiding it can help you prevent experiencing heart palpitations. This is because excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to the development of a heart condition known as atrial fibrillation.[6] This condition is marked by heart palpitations and arrhythmia. Even limiting your alcohol intake to one drink a day still puts you at risk of developing this condition. You should aim to drink much less or eliminate it.
Conclusion
You do not need any kind of treatment for most cases of heart palpitations. Palpitations cannot always be linked to a specific cause and it is natural to experience them sometimes. Practice the tips provided in this article to minimize your palpitations. If you frequently experience palpitations, you should see a doctor.
Reference:
[1] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321541
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-stop-heart-palpitations
[3] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321541
[4] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321541
[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321541
[6] http://www.onlinejacc.org/content/64/3/281