Pounding heartbeat: causes and when to see a doctor
By My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026 · Updated 7 Oct 2026
Palpitations are often caused by caffeine, anxiety or exercise. They can also come with high blood pressure or a heart rhythm problem. Chest pain, fainting or breathlessness with palpitations needs urgent care.
| How urgent | What a clinician will check | How we help | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chest pain, fainting or breathlessness with palpitations needs urgent care. | A blood pressure check and a clinical review. | Hypertension and diabetes assessment | Hypertension and diabetes assessment, KES 200 |
Pounding heartbeat: common questions
Frequently asked questions
What can cause pounding heartbeat?
Palpitations are often caused by caffeine, anxiety or exercise. They can also come with high blood pressure or a heart rhythm problem.
When should I see a doctor?
Chest pain, fainting or breathlessness with palpitations needs urgent care.
What will the doctor check?
A blood pressure check and a clinical review.
Is pounding heartbeat serious?
Usually not, but it is worth getting checked so a clinician can find the cause. Only an examination and tests can tell.
How can My Wellness Health help?
My Wellness Health's hypertension and diabetes assessment (Hypertension and diabetes assessment, KES 200) looks at your symptoms, history and lifestyle and gives you a personalised risk report with clear next steps. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours to help you book any screening you need at a facility that suits your budget and location. Assessment fees do not include tests or consultations at the facility.
This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.