Hi dear , As per your query your wife have heart palpitations and shortness of breath . Well the symptoms you mention in query are pointing towards a condition like atrial fibrillation . The symptoms can also occur due to side effects of certain medicine or chest infection , so also consult chest specialist . I would suggest you to consult cardiologist without any delay for proper diagnosis , because it can lead to heart failure and rule out causes like stress and anxiety , muscle spasm and nerve dysfunction . Doctor may order certain test like ECG and examine with stethoscope . Doctor may prescribe treatment for restoring your ventricular rate. Beta blockers, like Atenolol, Carvedilol, Propranolol, and others can slow the heart rate. Calcium channel blockers, such as Dilitiazem and Verapamil, are another class of drug used to slow the beating of the ventricles . For now take proper rest and do not exert your body . Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari