Post-COVID Heart Rate Increase: Should You Be Concerned?

After being diagnosed with COVID-19, there is a noticeable increase in heart rate?

Hello, Doctor He: Last week, I felt unwell and after testing positive with a rapid test and PCR, I isolated at home for 7 days.
Today is the 8th day, and I have completed my isolation.
I noticed that during the first 7 days of isolation, my heart rate significantly increased, mostly ranging between 90-110 beats per minute (my normal rate is usually around 60-80 bpm).
I initially thought this might be due to the medications I took during my telemedicine consultations, including several cold medications, and that my chronic medications for hypertension and hyperlipidemia were continued without interruption, which could have caused the increased heart rate.
However, today is the 8th day, and after another rapid test, I tested negative with no other unusual symptoms.
The only thing I still feel is that my heart rate remains mostly between 90-110 bpm (both my heart rate monitor and blood pressure monitor show a noticeably faster rate than usual).
I would like to ask if this could be a post-viral syndrome following COVID-19? I am quite concerned, even though I do not have any other obvious symptoms.
Should I seek further evaluation of my cardiac function or consult a cardiologist for medication to improve my heart rate? Thank you for your response.

Mr. Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/24

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, the heartbeat is controlled by the brain.
The brain determines how many times the heart should beat based on the body's needs.
After a COVID-19 diagnosis, the body may still have some immune responses, which could lead the brain to signal the heart to pump faster for increased blood supply.
Alternatively, the autonomic nervous system may be somewhat dysregulated due to COVID-19.
It is advisable to monitor the situation, and if you experience any discomfort, please consult a cardiologist for further examination and treatment.
Peace and safety from Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/05/24

More Info

Post-COVID heart rate increase is a concern that many individuals experience after recovering from COVID-19. It is not uncommon for patients to report symptoms such as tachycardia (elevated heart rate) during or after their infection. In your case, experiencing a heart rate consistently between 90-110 beats per minute (bpm) after a COVID-19 infection is noteworthy, especially since your baseline heart rate was typically between 60-80 bpm.

COVID-19 can affect the cardiovascular system in various ways. The virus may lead to inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), changes in heart rhythm, or exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia. The stress of the illness itself, along with the medications you took, could also contribute to an increased heart rate. Additionally, anxiety and stress related to the illness and its aftermath can further elevate heart rates.

Given that you have a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, it is essential to monitor your heart health closely. While your heart rate increase could be a post-viral symptom, it is prudent to consult a healthcare professional, particularly a cardiologist, to evaluate your heart function. They may recommend tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or even a Holter monitor to assess your heart rhythm over a more extended period.

It is also important to consider lifestyle factors that can influence heart rate. Adequate hydration, balanced nutrition, and regular, moderate exercise can help improve overall cardiovascular health. However, if you experience any additional symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, you should seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while an increased heart rate post-COVID can be a common occurrence, it is essential to approach this symptom with caution, especially given your medical history. Consulting with a cardiologist for a thorough evaluation and possibly further testing is advisable. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific health needs and help determine if any treatment or lifestyle modifications are necessary to manage your heart rate effectively.

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