In children, palpitations are usually more of a nuisance than a medical problem. There are no risks to others. A person with atrial fibrillation may be given anticoagulation medications, or blood thinners. Sometimes an electric charge may be delivered into the heart by external paddles, known as elective cardioversion. Or a radiofrequency pulse might be delivered through a catheter placed into the heart.
Side effects depend on the treatment used.
Heart medications used to quiet the palpitations can cause worsening of the palpitations, life-threatening arrhythmias , swelling, severe allergic reactions , fatigue , dizziness , headache , and depression . Simple, intermittent palpitations require no treatment and have no long-term consequences. If the underlying disease is curable and the palpitations go away, no further treatment may be needed. The person monitors the frequency of palpitations. Any irregularity lasting longer than a few minutes should be evaluated immediately by a healthcare provider.