Palpitations are irregular beatings of the heart. Causes of palpitations may be inconsequential or serious, ranging from anxiety, fear, overexertion, caffeine or nicotine intake, emphysema, cancer, asthma or heart disease. Palpitations with coughing may indicate a more serious heart disorder, such as coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction. Patients with chronic heart palpitations may develop an accompanying cough due to fluid retention from insufficient blood flow. A medical professional should be consulted for all bouts of palpitations and coughing, especially if followed by chest pain, difficulty breathing or blood-tinged mucus.
When the heart experiences a palpitation, the heart either speeds up or slows down its regular rhythm. This can be a very unpleasant and disconcerting experience, but it does not necessarily indicate an emergency situation. The heart is affected by hormones and drugs, such as adrenaline before a difficult examination or caffeine in a large cup of morning coffee. Regular or severe palpitations affect the organ of the body, as the heart does not pump out blood as efficiently. Fluid therefore builds up in the organs.
Fluid buildup in the lungs triggers the automatic coughing response. Patients suffering from palpitations and coughing often describe the feelings as a "catch" in the heart that causes temporary breathlessness and is followed by uncontrollable coughing or wheezing. The coughing may be worse at night while the patient rests in a sleeping position. In some cases when fluid up in the lungs is especially severe, coughing may produce white, blood-tinged or pink phlegm. The patient may also experience swelling in the feet, legs or abdomen.
The exact causes of palpitations and coughing are difficult to determine without a full medical examination. Patients sensitive to highly caffeinated drinks may experience frightening symptoms and may have relief when the offending product is no longer consumed. Other patients may be experiencing the early signs of coronary heart disease or a heart attack. Chronic or severe coughing with palpitations should be evaluated as soon as possible to rule out or treat more serious disorders or diseases.
Medical professionals offer suggestions for managing palpitations and coughing. Patients should avoid smoking as well as caffeinated foods and drinks, learn to manage stressful situations, and practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques. Chronic sufferers need regular monitoring. Prescription drugs or dietary changes may relieve the symptoms. An active, healthy lifestyle with limited salt, fats and alcohol not only improve quality of life but may also reduce palpitations and coughing bouts.