Is Your Heart Rate Normal? Heart Rate Variability and Health - Cardiology

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Understanding heart rate and its variability is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. The normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). However, individual variations can occur based on factors such as fitness level, age, and overall health.
In your case, a resting heart rate of 65 to 75 bpm while sleeping is within the normal range. However, a heart rate of 95 to 105 bpm during waking hours can be considered elevated, especially if it occurs frequently or is accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, nausea, or palpitations. It's important to note that transient increases in heart rate can occur due to various factors, including physical activity, stress, anxiety, or even caffeine intake.

Your history of experiencing chest pain and nausea, along with episodes of palpitations, warrants careful consideration. While your previous tests, including echocardiograms and exercise stress tests, indicated that your heart is functioning normally, the mention of a "suspected small hole" between the atria and ventricles is something to take seriously. This could refer to a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or an atrial septal defect (ASD), both of which can sometimes lead to complications if not monitored properly.

Heart rate variability (HRV) is another important aspect to consider. HRV refers to the variation in time intervals between heartbeats and is influenced by the autonomic nervous system. A higher HRV is generally associated with better cardiovascular fitness and resilience to stress, while a lower HRV can indicate stress or potential health issues. Factors such as anxiety, sleep quality, and overall lifestyle can significantly impact HRV.

Given your concerns about heart rate and the previous findings of mild tricuspid valve prolapse, it would be prudent to continue monitoring your heart health. Here are some recommendations:
1. Regular Check-ups: Continue to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased frequency of palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention promptly.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and managing stress through techniques such as mindfulness or yoga.

3. Monitoring: If you have access to a heart rate monitor or smartwatch, use it to track your heart rate throughout the day. This can help you identify patterns and triggers for your elevated heart rate.

4. Further Testing: If your symptoms persist or worsen, discuss with your doctor the possibility of further testing, such as a Holter monitor to assess your heart rhythm over an extended period or an echocardiogram to evaluate the structure of your heart more closely.

5. Mental Health: Since anxiety can exacerbate heart rate issues, consider speaking with a mental health professional if you find that anxiety is affecting your daily life.

In conclusion, while your sleeping heart rate is normal, the elevated heart rate during waking hours, especially in conjunction with your symptoms, should be monitored closely. Regular communication with your healthcare provider and proactive management of your lifestyle can help ensure your heart health remains stable.