Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help

Rapid heartbeat

Hello, Dr.
He.
My usual heart rate is around 70-80 beats per minute, but in the past few days, my heart rate has been consistently fast, measuring between 106-112 beats per minute.
My blood pressure readings are around 105-120 mmHg for systolic and 65-83 mmHg for diastolic.
I feel dizzy and lethargic.
I previously had elevated thyroid hormone levels, but they have returned to normal after treatment.
What could be causing this? Should I see a doctor? Thank you.

A Jie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/19

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello Ajie, it is possible that your thyroid function is abnormal again or that you are experiencing autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
You can start by monitoring your condition.
If you continue to feel unwell, please visit the cardiology outpatient clinic for further examination and treatment.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/01/19

More Info

When experiencing a rapid heartbeat, also known as tachycardia, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Your reported heart rate of 106-112 beats per minute, along with feelings of dizziness and lethargy, warrants careful consideration.

Tachycardia can be caused by various factors, including physiological responses to stress, anxiety, or physical exertion. However, it can also indicate underlying medical conditions. Given your history of hyperthyroidism, it is crucial to monitor your thyroid function closely, as thyroid disorders can lead to increased heart rates. Even if your thyroid levels are currently normal, fluctuations can occur, necessitating regular check-ups.

Other potential causes of a rapid heartbeat include:
1. Anxiety and Stress: Emotional stress can trigger the body's fight-or-flight response, leading to an increased heart rate. If you have been under significant stress or experiencing anxiety, this could be a contributing factor.

2. Caffeine and Stimulants: Consumption of caffeine, nicotine, or other stimulants can elevate heart rates. Consider your intake of coffee, tea, energy drinks, or medications that may contain stimulants.

3. Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which may cause your heart to work harder, resulting in a faster heartbeat.

4. Anemia: Since you mentioned having low hemoglobin levels in the past, anemia could be a factor. When the body lacks sufficient red blood cells to carry oxygen, the heart compensates by beating faster.

5. Heart Conditions: While your previous tests (like EKG and echocardiogram) may have shown normal results, it is still possible for heart conditions to develop or for arrhythmias to occur. Conditions such as atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias can lead to episodes of rapid heart rate.

6. Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that include increased heart rate. Review any medications you are currently taking with your healthcare provider.

Given your symptoms of dizziness and lethargy, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly additional tests such as blood work to check your thyroid levels, complete blood count (CBC) for anemia, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess your heart rhythm.

In summary, while occasional episodes of rapid heartbeat can be benign, persistent symptoms, especially when accompanied by dizziness and fatigue, should not be ignored. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure your overall health and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask a question. Recently, I sometimes feel that my heart is beating very fast (without feeling anxious or having exercised). In milder cases, I only feel discomfort in my heart, but sometimes when it’s more severe, I feel very fatigued and have no s...

Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Mr. Tang, What you described is a typical case of "palpitations." There are many potential causes, and it is advisable to consult a cardiologist for further evaluation and treatment as soon as possible. Dr. Chung Yu-Hsuan

Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, Director Wu. I would like to ask about a concern I've been experiencing over the past week. I often feel like my heart skips a beat, and then suddenly beats very hard, causing significant palpitations. Whenever my heart beats strongly, my body also shakes a bit. I rea...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive intake of caffeinated beverages. It is recommended to adjust your lifestyle and engage in regular exercise. However, if symptoms persist, it is advisable ...

Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, I am currently 23 years old and have issues with being overweight and high blood pressure. Recently, I have noticed that my heart rate has increased significantly; it used to be around 50-60 beats per minute, but this week it has reached 80-90 beats per minute. I often fee...

Dr. Li Han reply Cardiology
Hello Mr. Lin, based on your inquiry, you are taking medication for hypertension and have recently experienced chest pain and a rapid heartbeat. However, your previous echocardiogram results were generally normal, which typically indicates no major issues. Angina can indeed prese...

Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, Dr. He: I have been experiencing episodes of tachycardia. I went to Hsinchu Mackay Memorial Hospital for an examination and had an electrocardiogram done. However, the doctor mentioned that it might be related to excessive stress. Recently, these episodes have become more ...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Dear Fred, if you have already undergone an electrocardiogram at another hospital or have had blood tests to rule out endocrine disorders, it is possible that you may be experiencing autonomic nervous system dysregulation or that your baseline heart rate is naturally elevated. If...