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Doris,   Thanks for your question.    It is very unlikely that skipped beats, or palpitations, are representative of a heart attack when they are the only symptom.  In other words, There should be other symptoms present such as:  chest, back, shoulder, arm, or jaw discomfort; shortness of breath; nausea and possibly vomiting; or sweating.   Your palpitations may just be early heart beats originating in the small chamber, called PACs, or from the ventricle, called PVCs.  These can occur from time to time in most people.  This can be associated with caffeine, nicotine, stress and anxiety.  Palpitations could also be a symptom for more serious cardiac arrhythmias.    I suggest you call your physician for an appointment to have this checked out.  If his/her examination and electrocardiogram are non-diagnostic, your doctor may arrange for a 24 hour monitor of your heart (Holter monitor), as well as other tests.   I hope this has been helpful.  Best wishes and feel better.   Martin Cane, M.D.