Rapid Heartbeat: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Common Symptoms of Rapid Heartbeat

A racing heart problem is often accompanied by additional symptoms such as:

• Chest pain, tightness, or pressure
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Fluttering sensation in the chest
• Feeling faint or actually fainting
• Anxiety or sudden panic
• Irregular heartbeats or skipped beats

These symptoms vary based on the cause of a racing heartbeat and how frequently it occurs.

Types of Rapid Heartbeat

Different types of tachycardia can cause rapid heart rate increases:

• Sinus Tachycardia: Heart rate increases naturally with activities such as exercise, stress, or fever.
• Rapid electrical activity above the heart's ventricles is known as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).
• An irregular and frequently rapid heartbeat originating from the upper chambers is known as atrial fibrillation.
• Ventricular tachycardia is a dangerous, rapid heartbeat that starts in the ventricles.
• Standing causes an increase in heart rate in people with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).

Causes of Rapid Heartbeat

There are several reasons for heart palpitations and heart racing episodes. Common causes include:

• Physical exertion: Exercise or intense activity increases heart rate to meet oxygen demand.
• Stress & Anxiety: Adrenaline release speeds up the heart rate, often causing heart palpitations.
• Dehydration: Low fluid levels make the heart pump harder.
• Fever or Infection: The body works harder during illness, increasing the heart rate.
• Anemia: A low red blood cell count can cause a fast heartbeat.
• Thyroid Imbalance (Hyperthyroidism): An Overactive thyroid accelerates metabolism.
• Stimulants: Caffeine, nicotine, energy drinks, and certain medications.
• Heart Conditions: Arrhythmias, SVT, and other electrical disturbances.
• Electrolyte imbalance: Low potassium or magnesium levels can disrupt heart rhythm.

Understanding that triggers like stress, dehydration, or thyroid imbalance can cause a racing heartbeat helps you feel more in control and less anxious.

When to See a Doctor?

Get medical help immediately if you experience:

• Rapid heartbeat at rest above 100 bpm.
• Persistent episodes lasting more than a few minutes.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Fainting or near-fainting.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Rapid heartbeat combined with dizziness.
• A known history of heart disease.

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and identify the best treatment for a rapid heartbeat.

Diagnosis for Rapid Heartbeat

Doctors may use several tests to identify the reasons for a rapid heartbeat:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): It Evaluates heart rhythm and detects arrhythmias.
• Holter Monitoring: 24:48-hour continuous heart rhythm recording.
• Stress Test: Measures heart activity during exercise.
• Blood Tests: To check thyroid levels, anemia, and electrolytes.
• Echocardiogram: Evaluates heart structure and function.
• CT Scan / MRI: Assesses structural or electrical abnormalities if needed.

Treatment Options for Rapid Heartbeat

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Medical Treatments

• Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers.
• Antiarrhythmic medications.
• Vagal maneuvers to slow the heart rate.
• Catheter ablation for recurring tachycardia.
• Pacemaker or ICD (rare, for severe rhythm disorders).

Home Remedies for Fast Heartbeat

Simple lifestyle measures can ease symptoms:

• Deep breathing and relaxation techniques.
• Drinking water to prevent dehydration.
• Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
• Adequate sleep and stress reduction.
• Light yoga or meditation helps more.
• A cold splash on the face to activate the vagus nerve.

Complications and Risk Factors for Rapid Heartbeat

If untreated, a rapid heartbeat may lead to:

• Fainting or falls.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Heart failure may occurs.
• Stroke (especially in atrial fibrillation).
• Weakening of the heart muscle.
• Sudden cardiac arrest (rare but severe).

Risk factors include smoking, excessive caffeine, thyroid disorders, anxiety, obesity, unmanaged hypertension, and a family history of arrhythmias.

Prevention Tips for Rapid Heartbeat

You can reduce episodes of heart racing by following heart-healthy habits:

• Stay hydrated throughout the day
• Reduce caffeine, energy drinks, and alcohol.
• Manage stress through mindfulness and breathing exercises.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in potassium and magnesium.
• Get regular exercise (avoid sudden, intense workouts)
• Monitor medications that affect heart rate.
• Need to Maintain a healthy weight.
• Treat underlying conditions, such as thyroid issues or anemia, early.

Why Choose Medicover Hospitals for Rapid Heartbeat Care

Medicover Hospitals provides professional care for heart rhythm issues and rapid heartbeats, giving you confidence in your treatment choices and support.

Our individualized approach ensures you receive a prompt diagnosis, professional advice, and the best course of action to manage your heart health confidently.