6 Reasons Your Heart Rate is High

You may have noticed that your heart beats faster when you exercise and slower when you’re relaxed. But have you ever felt like your heart was beating faster for no reason?

Having an increased heart rate isn’t necessarily cause for concern. It could be a symptom caused by a number of circumstances, such as anxiety, excitement or fear. However, it’s important to take note if you frequently experience an increased heart rate for no reason. 

“When you feel your heart pounding in your chest unexpectedly, don’t jump to conclusions that there’s something wrong with your heart, but if the problem continues without an explainable and simple cause, see a doctor to discuss your concerns,” says interventional cardiologist, Ali Moosvi, M.D.

What Is A High Heart Rate?

Generally, your resting heart rate should be around 60 to 100 beats per minute. A resting heartbeat that’s higher than 100 beats per minute, also known as a rapid heart rate, or tachycardia, should be checked by a doctor. Learn how to check your heart rate.

Here are six common reasons you may experience ahigh heart rate:

1. Stress. When your body responds to something stressful, frightening or upsetting, you may get a jolt of adrenaline, which can increase your heart rate.
2. Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Having too much thyroid hormone in your system makes your heart beat faster than it should, resulting in a rapid heartbeat.
3. Anemia. If you have anemia, you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body to your organs. Your heart may beat more rapidly to compensate, helping the oxygen-rich blood you have reach your organs more quickly.
4. Medication side effects. Some medications may increase your heart rate, including those that treat asthma, anxiety, colds, depression and high blood pressure.
5. Addictive substances. Caffeine, cigarettes and high levels of alcohol may cause an increased heart rate. Additionally, illegal drugs like cocaine may also have this effect on your heart rate.
6. Strenuous physical activity. When you exert more than your body is prepared for, it will result in a faster heartbeat.

When an elevated heart rate is caused by lifestyle factors, managing stress or limiting caffeine intake may help slow it. If you’ve noticed an increase in your heart rate after starting a new medication, ask your doctor if the drug could be responsible. Your doctor may be able to find an alternative medication or adjust the dosage. 

If your elevated heart rate is caused by a health condition such as anemia or hyperthyroidism, you should make an appointment with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Heart Conditions Can Also Cause High Heart Rate

Some people born with congenital heart conditions may experience an elevated heart rate. Others who develop heart disease over time may notice their heart rate feels fast. When something gets in the way of the heart working properly, it may have to work harder to pump blood more efficiently.

Heart conditions that may cause a rapid heartbeat include:

• Heart failure
• Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)
• Heart valve problems
• Coronary artery disease
• Scar tissue that forms after heart surgery

If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition and have noticed your heart rate is faster than usual, make an appointment with your doctor.

How To Lower Your Heart Rate

• Manage stress: Try practicing mindful meditation and taking time to do things you enjoy. You can also visit one of our health and integrative medicine specialists.
• Exercise:Aim to exercise for 30 minutes daily. Physical activity strengthens your heart so it doesn’t have to work as hard when you’re at rest.
• Stop smoking: Smoking results in a rapid heart rate and is a leading cause of heart disease.
• Eat healthy: Every day, focus on eating whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, alcohol, sodium and sugar. (See the worst foods to eat for your health.)
• Visit your doctor: You may need medication to control your fast heart rate, so inform your health care provider if you’ve noticed an increased pulse rate and stay current with recommended screenings and physical exams. Find a doctor at Hackensack Meridian Health.
• Get a heart screening: A heart screening is the best way to learn whether you have a heart condition that requires treatment. Our screenings include CT calcium scoring scan, coronary artery CT angiography, angioscreen vascular screening, electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, cardiac stress tests and more. 

When To Seek Emergency Care For a Rapid Heart Rate

Call 911 or go to the Emergency Department if your heart rate seems too high and you experience:

• Shortness of breath
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Weakness
• Feeling faint or fainting
• Chest pain or discomfort

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our sources:Ali Moosvi, M.D.
• Learn more about heart health at Hackensack Meridian Health.