To relieve the discomfort of palpitations, the patient may be instructed to perform certain simple actions to alleviate some of the discomfort or the symptoms altogether. These include deep breathing, relaxing, splashing cold water on one's face or drinking cold water. Medical treatment may also be recommended if the palpitations are extremely bothersome. Beta blockers are often successful in alleviating the symptoms of palpitations.

If palpitations are occurring because of a substance that the patient is using (e.g., caffeine, nicotine or certain medications), these should be limited or eliminated from the diet. If the palpitations are the symptom of an underlying condition, such as depression or arrhythmia, then treatment will focus on the condition itself. Most patients with palpitations, however, are not suffering from major arrhythmias or psychological disorders.

People may also be referred to a specialist who deals with the diagnosis and management of patients with palpitations (e.g., an electrophysiologist).