Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Solutions for Cardiac Health

Rapid heartbeat

Hello Dr.
Zhong,
I am 177 cm tall and weigh 66 kg.
My health condition shows slightly elevated blood lipids, while other parameters are normal.
I have a habit of smoking.
Last year, I experienced a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute and went to the hospital for examination.
After X-rays, blood tests, and an electrocardiogram, the doctors found no abnormalities.
They prescribed medication to lower my heart rate, which returned to normal.
They advised that if the issue persisted after a few months, I should undergo further testing.
Currently, my heart rate situation is as follows:
1.
In the morning upon waking, my heart rate is normal, under 72 beats per minute.

2.
After light activity (about 5 minutes of walking), my heart rate increases to 80-90 beats per minute, and it takes more than half an hour of rest for it to return to normal.

3.
If I smoke, my heart rate is around 80-90 beats per minute, and it takes about 1-2 hours for it to normalize.
Therefore, if I smoke throughout the day, my heart rate remains at 80-90 beats per minute.

4.
If I consume alcohol, my heart rate spikes above 100 beats per minute.
I would like to ask:
1.
If this is considered normal, why do others not experience the same? Shouldn't there be an issue with some part of my body?
2.
If this is considered abnormal, would abstaining from smoking and drinking, along with regular exercise, help restore my body to normal?
Thank you for taking the time to read my email, and I hope to receive your reply soon.

A-Ming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/10/04

Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology

Dear Mr.
He Ming,
In general, a normal resting heart rate for adults can range from 60 to 100 beats per minute, varying from person to person.
Individuals who exercise regularly tend to have a slower heart rate.
Several factors can influence heart rate, such as fever, anemia, and hyperthyroidism, all of which can cause an increase in heart rate.
Smoking and alcohol consumption can also accelerate heart rate, while resting or sleeping typically results in a slower heart rate.
Based on your letter, if you can quit smoking and increase your physical activity, it should help normalize your heart rate.
Keep up the good work!
Wishing you and your family peace and happiness.
Dr.
Zhong Yuxuan
Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2002/10/04

More Info

Understanding rapid heartbeat, or tachycardia, can be complex, especially when considering individual health factors and lifestyle choices. Your situation, characterized by a history of elevated heart rates, particularly after smoking or drinking alcohol, raises important questions about your cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

Firstly, it's essential to recognize that a resting heart rate of 72 beats per minute is generally considered normal. However, the increase in heart rate to 80-90 beats per minute with minimal activity, and even higher with smoking or alcohol consumption, suggests that your heart may be more sensitive to these stimuli than average. This sensitivity can be influenced by several factors, including your smoking habit, which is known to increase heart rate and blood pressure due to nicotine's stimulatory effects on the cardiovascular system.

1. Is this normal?
While a heart rate that increases with activity is expected, the degree to which yours rises may indicate an underlying issue. Factors such as anxiety, dehydration, or even caffeine intake can contribute to an elevated heart rate. However, since you have a history of tachycardia that required medication, it is crucial to consider that your heart may not be responding to stressors in the same way as others. The fact that your heart rate remains elevated for an extended period after smoking or drinking suggests that these substances may be exacerbating an underlying condition, such as autonomic nervous system dysregulation or a predisposition to arrhythmias.

2. What can be done?
If you were to eliminate smoking and alcohol from your lifestyle, along with incorporating regular exercise, it is likely that your heart rate could stabilize. Smoking cessation is one of the most significant changes you can make for your cardiovascular health. Studies consistently show that quitting smoking leads to improvements in heart rate, blood pressure, and overall heart health. Regular physical activity can enhance cardiovascular fitness, improve heart rate variability, and reduce the resting heart rate over time.

Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness practices, yoga, or other relaxation techniques can also help regulate your heart rate. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while minimizing processed foods and sugars, which can also impact heart health.

Given your history and current symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider or a cardiologist for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests, such as a Holter monitor, to assess your heart rate variability over a 24-hour period, or an echocardiogram to evaluate the structure and function of your heart.
In summary, while your heart rate responses may not be typical, they can often be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical guidance. Prioritizing your cardiovascular health by quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and engaging in regular physical activity can lead to significant improvements in your heart rate and overall well-being. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your health regimen to ensure that you are taking the most appropriate steps for your individual circumstances.

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