Both skipping heart beats and atrial fibrillation are difficult to diagnosis as to cause, in my disappointing experience. Cardiologists tend to deal with them just as they deal with hypertension -- which they usually characterize as "essential hypertension," the cause of which 1) is not apparent and 2) apparently is not worth tracking down. One of the best cardiologists around the Washington DC area gave me a consultation; the upshot was a plan for testing an arsenal of medications until either 1) the a-fib is controlled, 2) it is regarded as "essential" (thus of unknown cause), or 3) a series of expensive surgical treatments is exhausted. I advise that you find a dedicated cardiologist who is willing to do the hard work of diagnosis to find a cause, then go from there. If hypertension is your main problem, leave the cardiologist's office and track down the best nephrologist you can find.

Hi, I really appreciate your response. Currently I have not experienced<br />
much palpitations lately. They usually occur with stress or after eating<br />
when I'm feeling full and having to get back to work after lunch. My pulse<br />
remains at normal levels. BP has been stable. Quick question why a<br />
nephrologist. Sounds interesting. Thx....Mike.<br />