the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate

Tachycardia and nasal congestion?

Since I was diagnosed last year, I have been experiencing a profound sense of nasal congestion.
There have been several instances where I felt close to suffocating and had to go to the emergency room.
I have undergone numerous internal medicine examinations at large hospitals, during which I discovered that I have tachycardia.
Every morning upon waking, my heart rate remains between 100 and 110, sometimes even higher.
I also had a 24-hour Holter monitor, a cardiac CT scan, a half-dose CT scan from the chest department, and blood tests from the hematology department, all of which indicated no issues.
However, just a few days ago, during a follow-up visit to the ENT department at the large hospital, the doctor informed me that my symptoms, including tinnitus, rapid heart rate, headaches, elevated blood pressure, and a sensation of having a cold, are due to nasal polyps blocking my airways.
I was prescribed medication and will be evaluated for surgery later.
I would like to ask the doctor if severe nasal polyps can lead to persistent tachycardia, tinnitus, blurred vision, a palpable pulse in the neck, and chest tightness?

X, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/01

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, regarding the issue of rapid heartbeat, most nasal decongestants, including some cold medications, can have the side effect of increased heart rate.
This is something to be aware of.
If drug side effects are ruled out, it may be necessary to check for arrhythmias.
If arrhythmias are present, you should consult a cardiologist.
If not, you might consider visiting a family medicine clinic for further systemic evaluations.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2023/03/01

More Info

Nasal congestion, particularly when caused by conditions such as nasal polyps, can indeed have a significant impact on various bodily functions, including heart rate. Your experience of persistent nasal congestion and the associated symptoms of rapid heart rate, tinnitus (ear ringing), headaches, elevated blood pressure, and a sensation of breathlessness can be interconnected.

Understanding the Connection
1. Physiological Response to Nasal Congestion:
When the nasal passages are obstructed due to polyps or other conditions, it can lead to a phenomenon known as "mouth breathing." This type of breathing is less efficient than nasal breathing and can cause a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. The body responds to low oxygen levels (hypoxia) by increasing heart rate to ensure that oxygen is delivered more quickly to vital organs. This compensatory mechanism can explain why you are experiencing a heart rate of 100-110 beats per minute upon waking.

2. Sympathetic Nervous System Activation:
Nasal congestion can also activate the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. This activation can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure. When you feel suffocated or have difficulty breathing, your body may perceive this as a stressor, further stimulating the sympathetic nervous system and exacerbating your symptoms.

3. Inflammatory Response:
Conditions like nasal polyps are often associated with chronic inflammation. Inflammatory mediators can affect the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Chronic inflammation can also contribute to feelings of fatigue and malaise, which may further complicate your symptoms.

4. Impact on Other Systems:
The interconnectedness of bodily systems means that issues in one area can lead to symptoms in another. For instance, nasal congestion can lead to poor sleep quality due to difficulty breathing at night, which can result in fatigue and increased heart rate during the day. Additionally, the discomfort from nasal congestion can lead to anxiety, which can also elevate heart rate.

Symptoms You Described
- Tinnitus and Headaches: These symptoms can arise from increased pressure in the sinuses and ears due to nasal congestion. The Eustachian tubes, which help equalize pressure in the ears, can become blocked, leading to a sensation of fullness and ringing in the ears.

- Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision can sometimes occur due to increased intracranial pressure or tension headaches, which can be exacerbated by sinus pressure.

- Palpitations and Chest Discomfort: The sensation of your pulse in the neck and chest discomfort can be related to the increased heart rate and anxiety stemming from your breathing difficulties.

Recommendations
1. Medical Evaluation: It is crucial to follow up with your ENT specialist regarding the nasal polyps. Surgical intervention may be necessary if medication does not alleviate your symptoms.

2. Cardiovascular Monitoring: Continue to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure, especially during episodes of nasal congestion. If your heart rate remains elevated or you experience new symptoms, further evaluation by a cardiologist may be warranted.

3. Breathing Techniques: Practicing controlled breathing techniques can help manage anxiety and may assist in reducing your heart rate during episodes of nasal congestion.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Staying hydrated, avoiding allergens, and using saline nasal sprays can help manage nasal congestion. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise can improve overall cardiovascular health.

In conclusion, while nasal polyps and congestion can lead to a variety of symptoms, including rapid heart rate and discomfort, addressing the underlying cause through appropriate medical treatment is essential. It is advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to your health concerns.

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