Why Is My Heart Racing? Fast Heartbeat Symptoms - Cardiology

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Experiencing a racing heart, or tachycardia, can be concerning and uncomfortable. It’s important to understand that several factors can contribute to this condition, especially in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Firstly, it’s essential to recognize that a fast heartbeat can be influenced by various physiological and psychological factors. In your case, you mentioned feeling nauseous and having a lack of appetite, which could be linked to anxiety or stress. Anxiety is a common trigger for tachycardia, as it activates the body's fight-or-flight response, leading to an increase in heart rate. This is often accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, and gastrointestinal discomfort, which you seem to be experiencing.

Your history of mild mitral and aortic valve regurgitation and autonomic nervous system dysregulation may also play a role in your symptoms. Valve regurgitation can sometimes lead to an increased workload on the heart, which might cause it to beat faster, especially during physical activity or stress. Additionally, autonomic nervous system imbalances can lead to fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure, contributing to feelings of palpitations or a racing heart.

You mentioned that you have undergone various tests, including blood tests and possibly an echocardiogram, which have returned normal results. This is reassuring, as it suggests that there are no significant structural heart issues. However, the presence of right bundle branch block (RBBB) noted in your previous evaluations could be a benign finding, especially if it has been stable and not associated with other symptoms.

The medications prescribed to you, such as beta-blockers (like Propranolol), are commonly used to manage symptoms of anxiety and tachycardia. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, which can help to lower heart rate and reduce feelings of anxiety. If you find that these medications help alleviate your symptoms, it may be beneficial to continue discussing their use with your healthcare provider.

In terms of lifestyle factors, it’s crucial to consider your daily habits. Caffeine intake, lack of sleep, dehydration, and irregular eating patterns can all contribute to increased heart rate and feelings of discomfort. Ensuring that you maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get adequate rest can significantly impact your overall well-being and help manage your symptoms.

If you continue to experience these symptoms, it may be worthwhile to explore further evaluations, such as a 24-hour Holter monitor, which can provide more insight into your heart's rhythm over an extended period. This can help identify any patterns or triggers associated with your racing heart.

In summary, while your symptoms can be distressing, they are often manageable with appropriate lifestyle adjustments and medical treatment. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many people experience similar symptoms, especially during times of stress or anxiety.