Sudden Rapid Heart Beats

Do you experience a sudden, racing heartbeat for what seems like no good reason? If so, then you are likely overstressed. Stress is defined as any internal or external pressure that alters your body's natural function. Most notably, stress results in increased production of adrenaline, a chemical that directly increases your blood pressure and heart rate.

What Are Rapid Heartbeats?

Rapid heartbeat, scientifically known as tachycardia, is defined as an abnormally fast heartbeat. How fast is abnormal? Well, at rest the typical human heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. When we exercise, the normal heart rate increases, because our muscles and other organs require more oxygen. Therefore, if your heart rate suddenly jumps above 100 beats per minute in the absence of exercise, then you are experiencing rapid heartbeat. Palpitations, heart flutters or other abnormal heartbeats may also be associated with tachycardia.

Are Sudden Rapid Heartbeats Dangerous?

Over the short-term, sudden jumps in heartbeat are not particularly dangerous. However, they can be an indicator of more dangerous problems and may lead to further long-term ailments if they persist. If you notice that your heart races during times of stress, then it is essential to learn stress management techniques to maintain health. Not only will this help stop the rapid jumps in heart rate, but it may also help deter heart disease, abnormal blood pressure, diabetes and depression. Stress Management techniques can be developed on your own but are more effective with the assistance of professional help or enrolling in self-help programs like The Midwest Center's Attacking Anxiety & Depression Program.

Other Causes of Sudden Rapid Heartbeat

Stress is not the only cause of a racing heart. Other factors may combine with stress to make matters worse. Such factors include alcohol consumption, ingestion of appetite suppressants, over the counter decongestants, smoking cigarettes and caffeine.

Less frequently, rapid heartbeat are not caused by stress, but rather a more serious physical ailment. Some of these causes include a lung infection (pneumonia), blood infection, anemia and abnormal thyroid function. If your sudden rapid increase in heart rate is accompanied by a shortness of breath, then a link to lung problems is likely. Similarly, a frequent feeling of weakness or tiredness is an indicator of anemia.

Coping with Stress to Stop Sudden Rapid Heartbeat

If you are experiencing racing heartbeat, then it is important to consult your physician to properly understand the causes. Most likely, stress is at least partly to blame. If this is the case, then the primary treatment for sudden rapid heartbeat is a stress management plan. The Midwest Center's Attacking Anxiety & Depression Program helps stress vcitims create this plan and develop healthy habits to combat stress & anxiety.