Could the sudden rise in heart rate mean atrial fibrillation?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor, I am 62 years old, and for the past few weeks, I have noticed my heart rate randomly races up to 120 to 140 beats per minute even when I am just sitting. Sometimes I feel lightheaded or tired afterwards. Could this be atrial fibrillation? Is it dangerous, and how is it usually treated? I am worried that it might lead to a stroke or heart failure. Do I need to be on blood thinners or any other long-term medication? Please suggest. Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
Heart rates up to 120 to 140 beats per minute need attention. A fast heartbeat could be due to a few things, such as a normal quickening of your heart, a condition called supraventricular tachycardia, or issues like atrial fibrillation or flutter. In rare cases, it could even start in the lower chambers of your heart. To figure out exactly what is going on and how to best manage it, we need to do some proper tests.
There are many reasons why your heart rate might be higher than usual. These can include having low blood count (anemia), problems with the balance of salts in your body (electrolyte imbalance), a lack of blood flow to your heart (ischemia or coronary artery disease), an infection, feeling stressed or anxious, or even a problem with the structure of your heart itself.
I recommend getting an electrocardiogram (ECG) done, especially when your heart is beating fast. It would also be a good idea to see a heart doctor (cardiologist) in person for a checkup and physical exam. If needed, they might also suggest an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of your heart) and a Holter monitor (a device to track your heart rhythm over time), along with some basic blood tests like a complete blood count, electrolyte levels, and a thyroid function hormone (TSH) test.
Once we know what is causing the fast heart rate, we can treat it accordingly. Often, treating the underlying cause will help with most types of fast heartbeats. If it turns out to be atrial fibrillation, you might need medication to control and steady your heart rate and rhythm. Depending on your risk factors, you might also need blood-thinning medication.
I hope this answers your query.
Let me know if I need to assist you further.
Thank you.
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