Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Issues in Family Medicine

Blood pressure and heart rate issues?

Usually, my blood pressure is normal, but my heart rate is often around 105.
Sometimes, I experience low blood pressure with a heart rate of about 85.
Since the beginning of this year, I frequently feel short of breath and slightly wheezy, with a sensation of my heart racing and palpitations.
At times, I also experience nausea, fatigue, a feeling of heaviness in my head, and dizziness.
These symptoms have persisted from the beginning of the year until now, and recently they seem to have worsened.
Just recently, when measuring my blood pressure with family, I found that although my blood pressure is generally normal, during uncomfortable episodes, my heart rate is fast, and my blood pressure is low.
I am a bit concerned that there might be an actual problem with my heart.

Bai Se Shan Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/15

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Based on your description, the symptoms of palpitations indicate that tachycardia is a clinical manifestation of a condition that requires further investigation to determine the underlying cause.
It is recommended that you seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Reply Date: 2021/11/15

More Info

Understanding heart rate and blood pressure issues is crucial in family medicine, especially when patients present with symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and fluctuations in blood pressure. Your description of experiencing a consistently elevated heart rate of around 105 beats per minute, alongside episodes of low blood pressure and various uncomfortable symptoms, raises several important considerations.

Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Dynamics
Firstly, it is essential to understand the relationship between heart rate and blood pressure. The heart rate (HR) is the number of times your heart beats in a minute, while blood pressure (BP) measures the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. Both parameters are influenced by various factors, including physical activity, emotional state, medications, and underlying health conditions.

In your case, a resting heart rate of 105 beats per minute is considered tachycardia (an elevated heart rate). This can be caused by several factors, including anxiety, dehydration, anemia, hyperthyroidism, or even cardiac conditions. The symptoms you describe—such as feeling faint, nauseous, and fatigued—can be associated with both tachycardia and low blood pressure, which can lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs.

Potential Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction: The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate and blood pressure. Dysregulation can lead to symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, and fainting spells. Conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) could be a consideration if your symptoms worsen upon standing.

2. Cardiac Issues: Although your blood pressure readings are normal, the combination of a high heart rate and symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath warrants further investigation. Conditions such as arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease, or even structural heart problems could be contributing factors.

3. Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid disorders, particularly hyperthyroidism, can lead to increased heart rate and symptoms of anxiety or palpitations. A simple blood test to check thyroid function could provide valuable insights.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can significantly impact heart rate and blood pressure. Anxiety can lead to increased heart rate and sensations of palpitations, which may be exacerbated by stress or panic attacks.

5. Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance: Low blood pressure can sometimes be attributed to dehydration or imbalances in electrolytes, which can also affect heart rate.

Recommendations for Management
1. Medical Evaluation: Given the persistence and severity of your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, blood tests (including thyroid function tests), and possibly an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, may be necessary to rule out any serious conditions.

2. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any associated factors (like stress or physical activity). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider lifestyle changes that can help manage your symptoms. Staying hydrated, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, practicing relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or meditation), and ensuring adequate sleep can be beneficial.

4. Medication Review: If you are on any medications, discuss them with your healthcare provider to determine if they could be contributing to your symptoms.

5. Follow-Up: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management. Taking proactive steps to monitor your health and communicate openly with your healthcare provider will be key in addressing your concerns effectively.

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