Rapid Heartbeat and Abnormal Body Symptoms

26 April 2024

Rapid Heartbeat and Abnormal Body Symptoms – Understanding the Risks

The heart is a miraculous organ, tirelessly pumping blood throughout the body, ensuring continuous circulation. Normally, the heart beats at a steady rate. However, if it beats too fast, it could indicate an abnormality in the body, potentially signaling underlying health issues. Today, let's delve into the realm of rapid heartbeats, exploring what causes them and whether they pose a danger.

Understanding Rapid Heartbeat

The heart rate varies with different activities. At rest (sitting or lying down), the heart rate typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. When walking, the heart rate increases to 100-120 beats per minute, and during exercise or running, it can go beyond 120 beats per minute. A rapid heartbeat, defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute at rest, may lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, and fatigue. It becomes particularly concerning if the heart rate exceeds 150 beats per minute, as it could pose significant risks.

Effects of Rapid Heartbeat on the Body

When the heart beats too fast, it hinders its ability to adequately pump blood to various parts of the body. This results in insufficient oxygen supply to tissues and organs, leading to symptoms such as irregular heartbeats, chest pain, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath.

Causes of Rapid Heartbeat

Several factors can contribute to a rapid heartbeat, ranging from normal physiological responses to potentially life-threatening conditions:

· Physical Activity: Exercise, such as running or cycling, can naturally increase heart rate.

· Medications: Some medications, like decongestants containing pseudoephedrine or antibiotics containing azithromycin, may cause rapid heartbeat as a side effect.

· Caffeine and Alcohol: Consumption of caffeinated beverages or alcoholic drinks can stimulate adrenaline release, resulting in an increased heart rate.

· Electrolyte Imbalance: Disruptions in electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride) can affect muscle contraction, including the heart muscle.

· Thyroid Disorders: Overactive thyroid glands (hyperthyroidism) can lead to a rapid heartbeat.

· Blood-related Conditions: High or low blood pressure, anemia, and blood clotting disorders can influence heart rate.

· Stress and Lack of Rest: Emotional stress and inadequate relaxation can activate the sympathetic nervous system, causing the heart to beat faster.

· Anxiety and Excitement: Feeling excited or anxious triggers the release of adrenaline, elevating heart rate.

· Substance Abuse: The use of substances like cocaine or methamphetamine can induce rapid heartbeats.

Diagnosing Rapid Heartbeat: Understanding the Process

Diagnosing rapid heartbeat involves a thorough medical history review and a detailed physical examination by a healthcare professional. The goal is to identify potential causes, including an inquiry into symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, rapid breathing, and dizziness, to determine whether it could be related to a heart condition. Additional diagnostic methods may include:

· Electrocardiogram (ECG): ECG is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It helps identify the type of rapid heartbeat and possible causes by measuring the electrical function of the heart.

· Echocardiogram (Echocardiography): This test measures the efficiency of the heart's functioning, examining components such as the size and shape of the heart, valve function, blood flow, and more.

· Exercise Stress Test: This test involves physical activity, such as walking on a treadmill or cycling, while monitoring heart activity. It aids in diagnosing various heart conditions, including rapid or irregular heartbeats.

Complications Arising from Rapid Heartbeat:

· Easy fatigue, fainting, or loss of consciousness

· Congestive heart failure or hypertrophy

· Formation of blood clots, leading to blockages in different parts of the body, such as legs, arms, brain, or lungs

· Sudden, unexpected death

· Preventing Rapid Heartbeat:

Preventing rapid heartbeat is achievable through simple lifestyle changes:

· Healthy Diet: Consume a diet rich in plant-based foods, lean meats, low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid excessive sodium, sugar, alcohol, and trans fats.

· Adequate Hydration: Drink enough water and moderate caffeine intake (no more than 1-2 cups per day).

· Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day.

· Caution with Medications: Be cautious with medications that may impact heart function. Consult a healthcare professional before using NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) or certain weight-loss medications.

· Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Control: Manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels through a balanced diet, low in sodium and cholesterol.

· Regular Health Checkups: Schedule annual health checkups to monitor heart health and detect any abnormalities early.

It's essential to pay attention to your heart's behavior, especially if there are deviations from the norm. If you experience a consistently rapid heartbeat or symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention promptly. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent complications that may pose life-threatening risks. For Krungthai-AXA life insurance customers interested in health-related information, additional articles can be found at https://www.krungthai-axa.co.th/th/health-advisories

References:

· MayoClinic

https://mayocl.in/3ZtBEC9

· Mahidol University

https://bit.ly/3rr9gE6

· Nakornthon Hospital

https://bit.ly/3t9sAGw

· Bumrungrad Hospital

https://bit.ly/48Fv6oi

· Bangkok Heart Hospital

https://bit.ly/3t7UQJx

· Paolo Hospital