A heartbeat that hiccups or races too fast is not exactly ideal. Sure, sometimes it can be brushed off as excitement, anxiety, or even a result of an intense physical workout. But feeling like your heart is about to give in at any moment is extremely unhealthy. In such cases, getting checked out by a professional is important.
Moreover, if your heart keeps beating erratically and you find yourself fainting because of it, that’s when you should be worried about an irregular heartbeat. To find out more on how to deal with this condition, keep reading this blog.
What Does An Irregular Heartbeat Mean?
A heartbeat that keeps rising and falling at an abnormal rate is usually an indicator of heart arrhythmia. This is a serious cardiovascular condition that focuses on the rhythmic pattern of your heart.
Whether your heart is prone to pounding or drastically slowing down, it is all related to arrhythmia. However, this does not include everyday activities. For instance, running pumps your blood. It is a natural process unrelated to arrhythmia. Similarly, when you’re lying down, your heart rate automatically dips because the body is in a resting state. These instances are not caused by arrhythmia.
Only when the heartbeat occurs outside of normal instances is when it should be considered a serious problem.
When Should I Be Worried About An Irregular Heartbeat?
Sometimes it can be difficult to identify the cause behind a racing or stalling heart. Is it because you moved around too much? Or is it your blood pressure dropping?
Besides the alternating rhythmic pattern of your heart, keep an eye out for the following:
- A fluttering sensation in your chest.
- Sharp pain in the chest.
- Extreme exhaustion or fatigue
- Feeling weak all the time
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Strong headache
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
If your irregular heartbeat is paired with two or more of the abovementioned symptoms, it might be a cause for concern. Reach out to a doctor immediately to get professionally evaluated.
Pay Attention To What Your Body Is Telling You
There are times when your heartbeat isn’t erratic; it’s just responding to certain stimuli. Mentioned below are a couple of common triggers that can make your heartbeat shoot up or slow down immensely.
Although, it is important to note that these symptoms are not something to worry about since they are not directly linked to heart arrhythmia.
- Caffeine overdose
- Dehydration
- Pregnancy
- High fever
- Eating
- Stress or anxiety
- Cardio or HIIT exercise
- State of sleepiness
- Anemia
- Sleep apnea
- Being excited
- Intoxication caused by alcohol or drug abuse
Treatment Options For Heart Arrhythmia
If you suffer from an irregular heartbeat, then chances are your cardiologist will issue some tests for further evaluation. Typically, an echocardiogram is conducted as it helps to record how your heart works. You may also need to undergo a stress test or wear a remote monitoring device, such as a pacemaker.
Mainly, however, it depends on the severity of the condition. Based on your overall health, the doctor will take the necessary measures to stabilize your heart.
Contact A Professional Today!
If you fear your heartbeat is irregular but don’t know when you should be worried about it, do not hesitate. Contact a medical expert as soon as you can.
For more information on remote monitoring devices, contact Octagos Health at (281) 769-8733. You can also find us at 13325 Hargrave Rd Suite 281, Houston, TX 77070, on the first floor of the Hargrave Plaza.