Low Blood Pressure and Rapid Heartbeat: Symptoms and Concerns

Hypotension with tachycardia?

Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed on January 30th, and after a week, my rapid test came back negative, so I feel like I have recovered and don't have any significant sequelae.
However, in the past few days, I've been experiencing mild headaches and dizziness, feeling a bit lightheaded.
Sometimes, I also have blurred vision and find myself getting tired easily.
I'm not sure if these are sequelae.
Overall, my condition isn't severe and doesn't affect my daily life, but I do feel uncomfortable physically.
When I looked up these symptoms on Google, I found some alarming responses (like brain tumors or heart failure), which has caused me more psychological distress.
I recalled that I have experienced dizziness and fatigue before, which may not necessarily be related to the diagnosis.
My father has high blood pressure and often checks his blood pressure; I occasionally check mine too, and it usually reads around 85/55, with a heart rate around 100, and oxygen saturation at 98.
However, during a previous health check, I had mild anemia, and during a school health examination, the doctor asked if I had heart disease after listening to my heart sounds.
They measured my blood pressure three times, and I said I probably didn't have any issues.
Recently, I've been feeling lightheaded and fatigued, and I wonder if it could indeed be a heart problem.
Are these values concerning enough to seek medical attention?
Additionally, sometimes when I sleep, I feel my heart or pulse racing suddenly, almost like it's going to explode, and I struggle to breathe.
Occasionally, my body shakes.
If someone can wake me up, it usually interrupts this situation; if not, I wake up feeling panicked and uncomfortable in my chest, worrying that I might suddenly die one day.
However, after resting for a while, it usually eases.
This situation does not occur when I wake up.
I saw a doctor a long time ago, and all tests were normal, so they suggested it might be an anxiety issue.
They prescribed me a pink heart rhythm pill to take when I feel uncomfortable, but these episodes mostly happen while I’m sleeping and are not very frequent—maybe twice a day or not at all for a month.
I can't predict them in advance.
I notice they occur more often when I'm under more stress, but even when they happen, resting for a bit usually helps a lot, and I don't often need to take medication, so those pills have expired.
Just two days ago, it happened again, so I wanted to ask about it.
Thank you, Doctor.

Classmate C, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/14

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it is not uncommon for young women to have a blood pressure of 85/55.
Your symptoms are indicative of autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
You will not experience sudden cardiac death.
You can take heart rhythm medication every night before bed.
Don't worry, Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/02/14

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that are causing you concern, particularly after your recent COVID-19 diagnosis. The symptoms you describe—lightheadedness, mild headaches, fatigue, and episodes of rapid heartbeat—can indeed be distressing, especially when compounded by anxiety about potential serious health issues.

Firstly, let's address the blood pressure and heart rate readings you mentioned. A blood pressure of 85/55 mmHg is considered low, and a heart rate consistently around 100 beats per minute (bpm) is classified as tachycardia. While low blood pressure can be normal for some individuals, particularly if they are physically fit or have a naturally lower baseline, it can also lead to symptoms like dizziness and fatigue, especially when combined with a rapid heartbeat.
The symptoms you describe—feeling lightheaded, having a heavy feeling in your head, and experiencing visual disturbances—can be associated with low blood pressure. When blood pressure drops, the brain may not receive adequate blood flow, leading to these sensations. Additionally, the episodes of rapid heartbeat you experience, especially during sleep, could be related to anxiety or panic attacks, which are not uncommon, particularly in stressful situations or after experiencing illness.

Your mention of a history of mild anemia (low hemoglobin) could also contribute to your symptoms. Anemia can lead to fatigue and weakness, as your body may not be getting enough oxygen-rich blood. It’s important to monitor your hemoglobin levels and ensure you are addressing any nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to this condition.

Given your family history of hypertension and your own symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend further evaluation, including blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid function tests, and possibly an echocardiogram or a Holter monitor to assess your heart rhythm over a longer period.
It’s also worth noting that anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms like palpitations and feelings of breathlessness. If you find that your symptoms worsen during periods of stress, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help address both the psychological and physiological aspects of your experience.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, or anxiety, it’s essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions. They can provide you with a tailored approach to managing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen. Your health is paramount, and getting the right support can make a significant difference.

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