Rapid Heartbeat and Fainting: When to Seek Medical Help

Several instances of rapid heartbeat leading to fainting?

I have been experiencing shallow sleep and poor rest over the past few weeks.
On December 31st, during the New Year celebration, I consumed about 150ml of 6% fruit wine.
Shortly after, my heart rate increased, and I thought it might be due to not drinking for a long time.
I quickly took a shower and went to bed, but while using the restroom, I felt difficulty breathing, restlessness, and my heart was racing at about 110-120 beats per minute.
My extremities felt cold, my vision became blurry, and I almost fainted.
I hurried to lie down, which helped improve my condition.
After researching online, I suspected I experienced alcohol-induced vasovagal syncope.
I made sure to drink more water to stay hydrated.
However, on January 4th, while at a night market, I experienced a similar episode of rapid heartbeat and faintness, and squatting helped a bit.
On January 5th, while watching a movie, I again had a sudden increase in heart rate, a weak pulse that was hard to detect, cold extremities, and a sharp pain in my left chest that felt like someone was pressing a finger hard against my chest.
I quickly performed a pressure-relief maneuver I found online, bending my head down between my knees and interlocking my fingers while pulling them apart for about 10 minutes.
After that, I did not faint, and my rapid heartbeat gradually improved, but the chest pain persisted intermittently.
Should I seek medical attention? Is it possible that I have angina?

Ms. Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/05

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it doesn't sound like angina with a fast heartbeat and feeling faint.
You should consult a doctor to check for arrhythmia or vasovagal syncope.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2022/01/05

More Info

Based on your description of symptoms and experiences, it is crucial to understand the potential implications of your rapid heartbeat and fainting episodes. The symptoms you have described, including a rapid heart rate (tachycardia), feelings of faintness, cold extremities, and chest discomfort, warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Tachycardia: A heart rate of 110-120 beats per minute is considered tachycardic, especially if it occurs at rest or with minimal exertion. This can be a response to various factors, including anxiety, dehydration, alcohol consumption, or underlying cardiac issues.

2. Vasovagal Syncope: Your suspicion of experiencing vasovagal syncope after drinking alcohol is plausible. Vasovagal syncope is a common cause of fainting and can be triggered by stress, pain, or sudden changes in posture. Alcohol can exacerbate this condition by causing dehydration and affecting blood pressure regulation.

3. Chest Pain: The localized chest pain you described, especially if it feels like pressure or a sharp sensation, should not be ignored. While it could be related to anxiety or muscle strain, it can also indicate more serious conditions, including angina or other cardiac issues.

4. Cold Extremities and Weak Pulse: These symptoms can indicate poor circulation or a response to stress or anxiety. They can also be a sign of a more serious cardiovascular issue, particularly if they accompany other symptoms like chest pain or fainting.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some specific reasons to consider:
- Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to experience rapid heartbeats, fainting, or chest pain, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. These could be signs of an underlying condition that requires treatment.

- Frequency of Episodes: The recurrence of these episodes, especially in different situations (e.g., after drinking alcohol, while at a market, or during a movie), suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

- Chest Pain: Any new or worsening chest pain, particularly if it is associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath, should be evaluated immediately. This is especially true if the pain feels different from what you have experienced before.

- Risk Factors: If you have risk factors for coronary artery disease (such as a family history, smoking, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol), it is even more critical to seek evaluation.

Potential Diagnostic Steps
When you visit a healthcare provider, they may recommend several diagnostic tests to assess your heart health, including:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test can help identify any irregular heart rhythms or signs of ischemia.

- Holter Monitor: A 24-hour Holter monitor can provide insight into your heart's rhythm over an extended period, especially during episodes of symptoms.

- Echocardiogram: This ultrasound of the heart can assess heart structure and function.

- Stress Testing: A stress test can evaluate how your heart performs under physical exertion.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms of rapid heartbeat, fainting, and chest discomfort are concerning and should not be taken lightly. It is essential to seek medical evaluation to rule out any serious conditions, including coronary artery disease or other cardiac issues. Early intervention can be crucial in managing potential heart problems and ensuring your overall health and safety. Please consider making an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms and undergo appropriate testing.

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