My Heart Goes Out of Rhythm When I Squat

Feeling as if your heart is going out of rhythm is symptomatic of heart palpitations, a condition sometimes caused by strenuous exercise. While extremely common and usually harmless, heart palpitations could be indicative of an underlying medical condition. If you are concerned, your doctor will be able to determine if you need treatment.

Heart Palpitations

A heart palpitation while you are doing squats may feel like a skipped or fluttering heartbeat, or a heart that is beating too quickly or too hard. Heart palpitations that occur infrequently and subside quickly generally do not require medical treatment.

Exercise

This type of exercise is likely to cause a rise in heart rate or even induce extra heartbeats, giving you the feeling that your heart is out of rhythm. Avoiding exercise that triggers a heart palpitation can help reduce the amount of palpitations you feel. Also, avoid triggers such as smoking, caffeine intake, alcohol or stress.

Arrhythmia

A more serious cause of your heart feeling out of rhythm could be that you have a heart arrhythmia. According to the Mayo Clinic, these occur when electrical impulses in your heart malfunction, causing your heart to beat improperly. You may experience a racing or slow heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness and dizziness or fainting. Some arrhythmias are harmless while others, such as ventricular fibrillation, can be deadly. There are many types of arrhythmias, so speak with your doctor for a true diagnosis if you are worried you have one.

When to Call the Doctor

Sometimes, a heart palpitation may be an indication of something more serious. Call your doctor immediately if you experience heart palpitations frequently or have a history of heart conditions. Also, call your doctor if you experience chest pain in addition to a palpitation, if you faint, feel dizzy, or feel short of breath.