A strong HeartBeat - Constantly aware of my heart beating.

Dear Ask The Doctor: Over the past week I have been constantly aware of my heart beating. The speed of my heartbeat is relatively normal. Along with having an extremely strong heart beat I also get minor pains in my heart area every 30 seconds to 1 minute. I am a 16 year old male. Does anyone know what this is or what may be causing it ? Thank you :)

Dear Pat: What you are experiencing seems to be palpitations ie racing heart beat or incresed sensation of the heart beating in the chest. This can be caused due to anxiety, thyroid problems, fever, heart conditions like an arrythymia. You need to get tested and see a physician in person for a more detailed examination including a complete blood count, a thyroid level, an ecg  to check the status of  your heart. All the best.