Heading: Watch out for these symptoms if your heart rate acts up
When it comes to a life-threatening heart rate, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
When you're feeling under the weather, it's natural to wonder if you should head to the doctor or hunker down at home. But when it comes to matters of the heart, you've got to act fast.
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That's because time is of the essence when it comes to diagnosing heart conditions—and catching them early can save your life. If you're experiencing an abnormal heart rate (a.k.a. arrhythmia) along with symptoms like chest pain or dizziness that cause any level of concern, you should seek medical attention right away.
But what exactly is an abnormal heart rate—and when should you worry?
When your heart rate gives you pause:
Measuring your heart rate is easy: all you need are your fingers and your wrist or neck.You can also use a heart rate monitor or smartwatch to get an accurate count.
For most adults, a normal resting heart rate should fall between 60-100 beats per minute (bpm). But remember that factors like age, weight, level of physical activity, and underlying health conditions can affect your heart rate. So if you're outside that range, it doesn't necessarily mean you're in trouble.
That said, experts recommend getting evaluated by a healthcare provider if your heart rate is below 35-40 bpm or above 100 bpm—especially if the measurements you're getting are abnormal for you or if you're experiencing symptoms like:
- Heart palpitations (a racing or fluttering feeling in the chest)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Dizziness
Remember, if you detect an irregularity in your pulse, it's best to seek medical attention, especially if it's something new for you.
Why a healthcare provider's diagnosis matters:
Not everyone experiences heart problems the same way, so a definitive guideline for what's considered a dangerous heart rate doesn't exist. But there are several heart rhythm conditions that can affect your heart rate and go unnoticed until they're diagnosed.
Some of these conditions include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, premature ventricular contractions (PVC), and heart block.
Getting a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is crucial in any scenario. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to heart health, so understanding your unique circumstances is essential to maintaining a healthy heart.
So, when in doubt, seek medical attention to get the answers and treatment you need to keep your heart beating strong. And don't wait: the sooner you find out what's going on, the better.
If you suspect something's off, seek urgent care:
In some cases, an abnormally high or low heart rate can be a sign of a life-threatening condition. So if you're experiencing symptoms like severe chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or unusual fatigue, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
While there are things you can do at home to help calm your nerves and lower your heart rate, it's vital to get a proper diagnosis before trying any treatments. A healthcare provider can help you understand what's happening and provide guidance on how to manage your symptoms.
In other words, don't play doctor: spend those precious minutes waiting for answers in the exam room, not wondering if you're going to be okay.
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- If you have a chronic disease or a history of chronic diseases such as cancer, mental health issues, or cardiovascular health problems, regular monitoring of your heart rate can help in managing your overall health and wellness.
- Fitness and exercise can help maintain a healthy heart rate and lower the risk of heart rhythm conditions, but if you experience symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, lightheadedness, dizziness, or other abnormalities, seeking professional medical advice is crucial.
- A healthcare provider can diagnose various heart rhythm conditions like atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, PVC, and heart block, which may not show symptoms until diagnosed.
- Ignoring symptoms related to an abnormal heart rate can lead to serious issues, including life-threatening conditions like a heart attack. If you suspect something's off with your heart rate, it's essential to seek urgent care and prompt medical attention to ensure appropriate treatment and management.
