by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Heart palpitations are a common sensation where your heart feels like it's racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats. The episodes can happen when you’re active or resting, and you might feel them in your chest or your throat.
Palpitations can be unsettling, and it’s normal to want to know what’s behind them. Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute specialize in heart care, and we’re here to help you get to the root of your heart palpitations.
Most of the time, heart palpitations are harmless — but frequent or severe palpitations warrant a comprehensive evaluation to determine their underlying cause. Here’s what you should know.
Getting a comprehensive evaluation for heart palpitations
At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, we take your heart health seriously. That’s why we follow a systematic approach to diagnose the root cause of your heart palpitations and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Medical history and symptom review
We begin by discussing your medical history and current symptoms. This includes assessing lifestyle factors, like stress levels, exercise routines, and stimulant intake like caffeine or nicotine.
We ask questions about your emotional health and evaluate you for conditions like chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or panic disorders, all of which can contribute to heart palpitations.
Last but not least, we consider any existing medical conditions or known health issues you have. For example, thyroid disorders and anemia can impact heart health, and hormonal changes from pregnancy or menopause can also have an effect.
Diagnostic tests
Based on your initial assessment, Dr. Patel may recommend some diagnostic tests to better understand the potential causes of your heart palpitations. These can include:
Blood tests to detect preexisting conditions like anemia or thyroid imbalances
Stress test to evaluate how your heart functions under physical exertion
Doppler ultrasound to examine blood flow and pressure in your heart's chambers and valves
Echocardiogram, an ultrasound of your heart that provides detailed images of its structure and function
These evaluations aim to uncover any underlying conditions contributing to your palpitations. Once we understand what’s behind your heart palpitations, we work with you to address the issue and manage your health.
Understanding common causes and treatments for heart palpitations
Understanding the root cause of any health issue is key for effective treatment, and heart palpitations are no exception. Every case is unique, but some of the most common causes we see are:
Lifestyle factors
Stress, anxiety, excessive caffeine or nicotine intake, and strenuous exercise can all trigger palpitations. In these cases, we often recommend starting by proactively managing stress and reducing stimulant consumption to help alleviate symptoms.
Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid imbalances can lead to palpitations. While pregnancy-related palpitations typically resolve on their own after delivery, addressing these other hormonal factors with medication and lifestyle adjustments can also help reduce palpitations.
Arrhythmias
Abnormal heart rhythms may cause palpitations. Treatment options range from medications to procedures like ablation, and treating the arrhythmia often has a positive effect on palpitations.
Medical conditions
Underlying conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia can contribute to palpitations. Fortunately, by proactively managing the condition itself, you can reduce symptoms like palpitations and improve your overall well-being.
If you're experiencing heart palpitations and you’re concerned about what it might mean for your health, our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute is here for you. Contact us online or call our offices in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, to schedule an evaluation and take proactive steps toward better heart health.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Heart palpitations are sudden fluttering sensations in your chest. They make you feel like your heart is racing or that it’s skipped a beat, and when you notice these sensations, it’s normal to feel worried.
Common causes of heart palpitations are stress, caffeine intake, and physical exertion — but what many people don't realize is that hormonal changes can also trigger palpitations. In fact, understanding this connection can help you better manage your heart health.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute specialize in cardiology, and we know just how concerning it can be to experience heart palpitations. Here’s what you should know about the unique link between hormonal changes and palpitations.
How your hormones affect your heart
Hormones are chemical messengers in your body. They influence a lot of different bodily functions, including heart rate and rhythm. Specifically, estrogen and progesterone have profound effects on the cardiovascular system — and changes in these hormones can cause heart palpitations, particularly in women.
In fact, your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, and certain medical treatments like hormone replacement therapy and contraceptives all make estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate significantly.
Your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause
During your menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels naturally rise and fall. These changes affect your heart's electrical activity, sometimes triggering heart palpitations just before or during your monthly period.
Pregnancy brings about major hormonal changes, including a surge in estrogen and progesterone levels. As your body adjusts to support your developing baby, your heart works harder. For some women, these changes can lead to heart palpitations. While palpitations during pregnancy are usually benign, it's important to consult your healthcare provider.
In menopause, your estrogen levels decline. This hormonal imbalance can cause heart palpitations along with other symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. While menopausal palpitations are typically harmless, they may indicate underlying cardiovascular issues, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or dizziness.
Medical treatments
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a popular treatment to alleviate menopausal symptoms. It increases estrogen levels, but it can sometimes trigger palpitations as your body adjusts to a new hormonal balance.
Finally, contraceptives that contain estrogen can also influence your heart’s rhythm. While rare, some women can experience palpitations as a side effect of hormonal birth control.
Other possible factors
Aside from these natural hormonal fluctuations, conditions like hyperthyroidism can also lead to heart palpitations. Thyroid hormones influence metabolism and heart function, so an overactive thyroid can cause the heart to beat faster and irregularly.
Managing hormone-related heart palpitations
If you notice an unusual heartbeat or palpitations, don’t ignore them. Dr. Patel and our team can pinpoint the cause, so you can better manage your heart health. Managing hormone-related heart palpitations often involves addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance or trigger.
Tracking your menstrual cycles and managing stress levels can help you get more in tune with your body and reduce menstrual palpitations. If you’re pregnant, regular prenatal care and monitoring can ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
In menopause, lifestyle modifications like regular exercise, stress management, and dietary changes can help alleviate symptoms. If you are on HRT or contraceptives, adjusting the dosage or trying alternative medications may be necessary to minimize palpitations.
Your hormones can have a significant impact on your heart — and better care starts with better understanding. By staying informed and proactive about your heart health, you can navigate hormonal fluctuations with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Learn more with a consultation at NJ Cardiovascular Institute at one of our offices in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, or Secaucus, New Jersey. Call or send us a message online today.
by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
How much sleep did you get last night? Did you wake up feeling rested and alert? Adults need about 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Unfortunately, 40% of Americans don’t get enough of it.
In today’s world, quality sleep might seem like a luxury — but it’s an essential process that you can’t afford to skip. Lack of sleep makes your brain feel foggy, and even worse, it can have serious effects on your health.
In fact, lack of sleep increases your risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. In turn, these health issues can elevate your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
The good news is that prioritizing sleep can boost your heart health, and it’s easier than you might think. As part of our comprehensive Heart Smart Program, Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute can teach you how to start sleeping better.
Make exercise a habit
Exercise is good for your body and mind, and regular physical activity can also improve your quality of sleep. Strive to get around 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five days a week to sleep more soundly at night.
Exposure to natural daylight also helps regulate your body’s internal clock, so exercising outside offers a handful of benefits. Try taking a walk or biking outside in the morning or afternoon.
Establish a bedtime routine
One of the best ways to improve your quality of sleep is sticking to a regular sleep schedule. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, even on the weekends.
Establishing bedtime habits can also help you prepare for a better night’s sleep. Avoid eating, drinking, and exercising within a few hours of bedtime. Make time for some self-care, such as taking a warm shower or reading a book.
Avoid artificial blue light as you wind down in the evenings. Consider setting the screens on your devices to warm or nighttime mode or using blue light filters to help prepare your body for more restful sleep.
Create a relaxing sleep environment
The place you sleep is just as important as your nighttime routine. A bright, loud, or messy bedroom can make it harder to fall asleep, while a relaxing environment can make sleep come faster.
Keep your bedroom dark and quiet by eliminating distractions like TVs, computers, and phones. Turn the thermostat down to make the room cooler, and choose soft, comfortable bedding and sleeping clothes. If you’re a light sleeper, a white noise machine can help drown out distractions.
Learn to identify (and treat) sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders in the country. If you have it, you stop breathing for short periods of time while you sleep. Untreated sleep apnea can increase your risk of heart conditions, from high blood pressure to heart disease.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea are:
Loud snoring
Insomnia
Morning headaches
Dry mouth in the morning
Daytime sleepiness
If you think you might have sleep apnea, don’t wait to schedule a sleep evaluation. Sleep apnea can be treated to improve your quality of sleep and lower your risk of complications.
When it comes to your heart health, don’t overlook the importance of a good night’s sleep. Contact our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. Contact the office nearest you — in Lakewood, Newark, Paramus, or Secaucus, New Jersey — to set up your first appointment.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease — and it’s the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. It isn’t easy to recognize on its own, but partnering with a cardiologist can help you enjoy a longer, healthier life.
Early identification and personalized treatment are some of the best ways to avoid heart disease complications and improve your heart health, and the right care starts with comprehensive diagnostics.
Kunal Patel, MD and our team specialize in heart care at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. We offer stress testing and other diagnostic services to uncover heart problems and get you started on a treatment plan that meets your needs.
When your stress test is scheduled
A stress test is a safe and effective way to evaluate how well your heart functions when it’s working hard. It’s often used to assess possible causes behind symptoms like chest pain, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath.
If Dr. Patel and our team suspect you may have a heart condition, a stress test helps us reach a diagnosis. Stress testing can identify conditions like arrhythmias and coronary artery disease, and may even be used to evaluate how well treatment is working.
Be sure to tell us about any medical conditions that could affect your ability to participate in a stress test, such as arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. Let us know if you have diabetes, because we may need to monitor your blood glucose during the test.
For accurate results, you may need to stop taking certain medications prior to your stress test. Review all the medications you take with Dr. Patel to find out if you should modify your medication schedule.
On the day of your stress test
Follow our team’s guidelines for preparation as the day of your stress test gets closer. If you’ve been instructed to stop taking certain medications for a period of time before your test, remember to do so.
Dr. Patel may request that you avoid eating for at least three to four hours before your stress test. You may also need to avoid caffeinated beverages and smoking on the day of your test.
You’ll be on a treadmill or stationary bike for up to 15 minutes during your test, so it’s important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to your appointment. Lightweight, breathable clothes and athletic sneakers are a good choice.
What to expect during your stress test
Most stress test appointments last about an hour, including time to prepare you for the test. When you arrive, we check your vital signs and listen to your heart and lungs. If you’ve had any chest pain leading up to the test, let our team know.
We attach electrodes to your skin so they can monitor your heart function as you exercise. Then you walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike until your heart rate reaches a set target.
Dr. Patel and our team record and review your results. Once your test is complete, we discuss your results with you and use the information to develop a personalized heart health plan for you.
Stress testing is a simple, effective way to better understand your heart health. Find out more by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Patel and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. To make an appointment, contact us through the online booking tool or call one of our offices in Secaucus, Newark, or Paramus, New Jersey.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Chest pain is a common symptom in the United States. Each year more than eight million Americans visit the ER because of chest pain. It’s the second biggest cause of ER visits.
Our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute, which includes board-certified cardiologist Dr. Kunal Patel, knows that chest pain can be scary. But we also know that not all cases of chest pain warrant a trip to the ER. So let’s discuss when you should go to the ER for chest pain.
Common causes of chest pain
While chest pain is a telltale sign of heart problems, it could be from a different medical condition, including:
Panic attack
Gallstones
Pulmonary embolism
Peptic ulcers
Myocarditis
Muscle strains, which cause inflammation in the ribs
Heartburn
Some medical conditions may feel like a heart attack. Myocarditis, for example, has similar symptoms to a heart attack. So, knowing if your chest pain is from a heart attack or other heart conditions is important.
Coronary artery disease
Coronary artery disease is a serious condition that can lead to a heart attack. It occurs when your arteries become narrow or blocked by plaque build-up. Long-term high cholesterol often causes coronary artery disease.
The main symptoms of coronary artery disease are chest pain and angina. Angina causes a crushing or squeezing feeling in your chest. It also causes chest pain that can spread to your arms, neck, and jaw. Go to the ER immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Chest pain not caused by heart disease
Chest pain that’s caused by a muscle strain isn’t the same as heart-related pain. It’s likely that your chest pain is not from heart disease if:
It happens with certain movements
It can be pinpointed
Pain occurs with deep breaths
The pain goes away after a few seconds
Never dismiss chest pain — no matter what’s causing it. If your chest pain is severe and it concerns you, go to the ER. Don’t take any chances when it comes to your health.
When to visit the ER for chest pain
You should go to the ER if you experience chest pain along with other symptoms. This usually indicates a heart attack. Call 911 or get to the ER right away if you experience chest pain with:
Shortness of breath
Weakness
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats)
Sweating
Chest pain that moves to include your arms, neck, or jaw
Symptoms last more than five minutes
Angina (squeezing, tightness, or crushing sensation in your chest)
Heart attacks are often fatal and can cause permanent damage to your heart. That’s why if you experience heart attack symptoms, get medical help. The sooner it’s treated, the less damage it does.
Treating your chest pain
As mentioned, not all occurrences of chest pain need emergency medical help. However, it can eventually lead to more serious problems and put you at a greater risk for heart attacks.
Treating your chest pain at NJ Cardiovascular Institute, located in Newark and Secaucus, New Jersey, can prevent serious complications. To set up your appointment with Dr. Patel, use our online booking tool or call the office.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Jul 24, 2026 | Uncategorized
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