Why does my heart race suddenly while resting?

Question

Hello doctor,

It all started almost a year ago, while sitting at rest in a semi-ball position. I had a very strange sensation in the center of my chest, like something was being squeezed, like air. I really do not know how to explain it. But it was not painful at all. Little by little, my pulse accelerated to about 200 beats per minute. I went to my father, and when I lay down, he began to rub my chest and guide me in deep breaths, and little by little, it returned to normal.

During this episode, it is worth noting that I never experienced dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, disorientation, or pain or numbness in any part of my body, just the panic of not knowing what was happening. Everything passed peacefully, and the months passed, until a few months ago, I do not know exactly when, but I know it was after my father's death from a heart attack.

I was sitting in an office chair in a tense and uncomfortable position, and I felt that sensation repeatedly; those pulses shot up to about 200. The same thing happened, but this time, a friend helped me breathe calmly and guided me. It happened to me again the day before yesterday.

But this time I was asleep on my back, and when I stretched my whole body to change position, I felt that, and I started to panic because I already knew it was coming. This time it lasted a few moments longer because it was not until my mom woke up and saw me that she helped me rub my chest and guide me in my breathing, and it passed.

Now I live in fear that it will happen again, that it will be from my heart. But as I say, at no time did my chest hurt, I never got dizzy, disoriented and nauseous and no symptoms.

Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

From what you describe, you are experiencing episodes of sudden, rapid heartbeat, which we call palpitations or possibly paroxysmal tachycardia. It is important to note that your pulse rises quickly to around 200 beats per minute, but then settles with rest and breathing techniques. It is also reassuring that you have not had chest pain, fainting, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, which usually point to more urgent heart problems.

Stress, anxiety, posture, and even grief after your father’s passing may have played a role in triggering these episodes. However, because this has happened several times and you are understandably worried about your heart, I strongly recommend that you consult a cardiologist for further evaluation.

They may suggest tests such as an ECG (electrocardiogram), Holter monitoring (24-hour recording of your heart rhythm), or an echocardiogram to rule out any underlying heart rhythm disorder.

In the meantime, try to avoid triggers like excessive caffeine, lack of sleep, or stress, and continue practicing slow, deep breathing if another episode comes. Please do not be alarmed, but do take it seriously enough to seek medical advice, so that you can find both reassurance and, if necessary, proper treatment.

I hope this answers your query.

Let me know if I need to assist you further.

Thank you.