Often Heart Palpitation? Know Which is Normal and Need to Be Wary

Illustration of a beating heart. (Pexels)

JAKARTA - A pounding heart is generally not a sign of danger, but because someone is facing a certain situation. However, it is important to know that there is also a pounding heart that indicates certain health conditions that should be watched out for.

Specialist Heart and Blood Vessel Doctor, dr. Evan Jim Gunawan, Sp.PD, Sp.JP, (K) CCDS, said that not all heart palpitations are a sign of danger. Usually the heart beats because of the body's response to certain situations, such as a speech or an exam.

"If you want to give a speech or an exam, your heart beats fast, it's normal and not dangerous because it's part of the body's response," said Dr. Evan during a media session in Senayan, Jakarta, written on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

Therefore, it is very important for the public to understand the difference between normal and abnormal heart palpitations, which can potentially be a sign of a health disorder.

Doctor Evan said that abnormal palpitations are usually accompanied by additional symptoms. From irregular palpitations, to fainting.

"The abnormal palpitations cause fainting, irregular palpitations, accompanied by chest pain, cold sweat, this must be watched out for," he explained.

These symptoms indicate the possibility of a disturbance in the heart's electrical system or heart rhythm (arrhythmia). This condition can interfere with the heart's ability to effectively pump blood throughout the body.

"If there is an arrhythmia, the heart rate can weaken and in a matter of seconds the person can be unconscious," said Dr. Evan.

Thus, it is very important for everyone to understand the difference between normal and abnormal heart palpitations. Recognizing the difference can be an important step in maintaining heart health and early detection, so that treatment can be done quickly.