Can alcohol consumption increase heart rate?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had wine and beer at a dinner party, followed by a one-hour walk. During the walk, my heart rate increased to 133 bpm, then decreased to 116 bpm. Upon returning home and sitting down, I noticed my heart rate gradually dropped from 112 bpm to 103 bpm within a couple of minutes and eventually reached 93 bpm after 17 minutes. I then underwent several tests, including a stress echo, echo, ECG, full blood panel, and Holter monitor, all of which came back clear. I have never experienced this issue before.

I would appreciate your insights.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern. It is likely that the combination of alcohol, underlying anxiety, and physical activity contributed to your situation. When we engage in activities like walking, it is normal for our heart rate to increase. However, in your case, the alcohol likely caused a persistent elevation in your heart rate. Anxiety may also play a role in these symptoms. It is important to note that a rise in heart rate alone does not necessarily indicate any specific abnormalities. In most cases, it is a natural physiological response to various factors in the body.

While alcohol can potentially lead to cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, the gradual onset and absence of associated symptoms make it unlikely in this scenario. In cases of fibrillation, there would typically be palpitations and irregularities in the heart rhythm, often accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, sweating, or shortness of breath.

Given the information provided, there is no immediate cause for concern. However, if you continue to experience an elevated heart rate at other times, incorporating regular exercise to increase vagal tone and lower your heart rate may be beneficial.

I hope this information has been helpful.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

More than 30 ventricular ectopic beats per hour are associated with a higher risk, but what is more important is the presence of runs of ventricular premature contractions (VPCs). If you experience three or more VPCs in a row, it is called non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT), which is concerning and should be treated. Isolated VPCs, on the other hand, are generally less dangerous.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.