Why is my heart beating so fast?
Top Doctors recently spoke to esteemed London-based consultant interventional cardiologist, Dr Narbeh Melikian, who, here in our latest article, explains what tachycardia is, outlines the symptoms, whilst also detailing the diagnostic process.
Why is my heart beating so fast?
Tachycardia is a form of abnormal heartbeat in which the heart beats faster than usual. The majority of patients with tachycardia do not experience many restrictions to daily life.
What are the symptoms?
It is important to bear in mind that symptoms differ depending on the individual and many other medical factors. On occasions, there are no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do arise, they can last anywhere from 30 seconds to a couple of days.
Whilst experiencing supraventricular tachycardia, some of the symptoms patients typically experience are as follows:
- chest pain
- chest palpitations
- loss of breath
- sweating
- dizziness
- shortness of breath
Caffeine, recreational drugs and alcohol can also be responsible for a fast-beating heart and, therefore, those diagnosed will be advised to avoid these.
How is it diagnosed?
Before a doctor can diagnose your racing heart or supraventricular tachycardia, they will check symptoms whilst also carrying out a thorough examination. This usually involves a blood pressure test and a listen to the heartbeat, using a stethoscope. Often, they will also suggest an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG is a test to show whether the electric activity in your heart is normal or not.
Is it life-threatening, and how can a fast-beating heart be avoided?
If individuals don’t suffer from other heart disorders, supraventricular tachycardia is rarely life threatening. However, the best way of avoiding it is to maintain a healthy diet, undertake regular exercise and avoid smoking and heavy drinking.
Make sure you book a consultation with Dr Narbeh Melikian today via his Top Doctors profile if you notice that your heart is beating irregularly fast on a frequent basis.