By Dr. Sanjay Kumar in CTVS at Paras Hospital Gurgaon and Paras Hospitals East.
Understanding and Managing Your Heart Rate
Your heart rate, also known as pulse rate, is the number of beats per minute (bpm). A normal resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 bpm, indicating a healthy heart. Maintaining a low resting heart rate is beneficial for overall well-being.
A consistently high heart rate can increase the risk of heart attack, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Since heart rate fluctuates throughout the day based on activities like walking, sitting, and lying down, monitoring it regularly is essential. If your heart rate frequently falls outside the normal range, it may signal an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
Symptoms of Changes in Heart Rate
An increased heart rate can lead to various symptoms, including:
- Dizziness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any of these symptoms or complications, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health risks.
Call 73660-98456 to book an appointment today.
Causes of Changes in Heart Rate
Several factors can cause fluctuations in heart rate, including:
- Weather: High temperatures and humidity can increase heart rate as the body works to cool itself down.
- Exercise: Physical activity raises the heart rate to deliver oxygen to muscles depending on the intensity of the workout.
- Emotional Stress: Feeling overwhelmed or anxious can trigger an elevated heart rate.
- Rapidly Changing Body Position: Sudden movements, such as standing up quickly, can cause a temporary rise in heart rate.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can temporarily affect heart rate, leading to a rapid pulse.
- Prescription Drugs: Certain medications may cause an increased heart rate as a side effect.
- Fright: Intense fear can lead to a sudden spike in heart rate due to the body’s stress response.
Monitoring these triggers can help maintain a healthy heart rate and prevent complications.
Risk Factors That Influence Heart Rate
Several factors can impact heart rate, including:
- Age: Older individuals are more likely to experience increased heart rate.
- Medication: Certain medications can cause fluctuations, leading to either an increase or decrease in heart rate.
- Fitness Levels: People with lower fitness levels tend to have a higher heart rate during physical activity.
- Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to heart rate fluctuations and increased cardiovascular strain.
- Smoking: Smoking has a direct impact on heart rate and overall heart health.
- Emotions: Anxiety, stress, and intense emotions can raise heart rate levels.
Treatment Options for Irregular Heart Rate
Several treatments can help manage and prevent irregular heart rates:
- Catheter Ablation: Used when an extra electrical pathway causes an increased heart rate.
- Medications: Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers can help regulate heart rate.
- Pacemaker: A device that helps control abnormal heart rhythms.
- Surgery: In severe cases, heart surgery may be required to correct heart rate disorders.
Complications of a High Heart Rate
If the heart beats too fast, it may not pump enough blood to the body, leading to complications such as:
- Low physical fitness
- Weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Chest pain
- Obesity
- Low energy levels
- Poor blood circulation
- Heart failure
- Difficulty breathing
- Stroke
Maintaining a healthy heart rate through lifestyle changes and medical intervention can reduce the risk of serious health complications.
Preventive Measures to Maintain a Healthy Heart Rate
Dr. Sanjay Kumar, a renowned cardiologist at Paras Hospital, Gurgaon, and Patna, emphasizes that maintaining a steady heart rate is essential for overall heart health. Below are some preventive measures to prevent an irregular heartbeat:
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake: Excessive consumption can lead to an irregular heart rate. Moderation is key.
- Quit smoking: Smoking significantly impacts heart health. If you’re struggling to quit, consult a healthcare expert.
- Maintain healthy blood pressure levels: Reduce salt intake and follow a balanced diet to avoid hypertension-related heart issues.
- Regular exercise and diet: A combination of healthy eating and daily physical activity is essential for heart wellness.
Diet for a Healthy Heart Rate
According to experts at Paras Hospital, Gurgaon, and Patna, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable heart rate. Key dietary recommendations include:
- Whole grains: Help lower cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Leafy greens and fruits: Rich in vitamin K1, they support cardiovascular health and prevent heart rate fluctuations.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel) and plant sources (chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds), they help regulate heart rate and lower cardiac arrest risk.
Conclusion
Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Dr. Sanjay Kumar advises that a normal resting heart rate of 60-72 beats per minute is a strong indicator of a healthy heart. Lifestyle modifications, proper nutrition, and regular check-ups at Paras Hospital, Gurgaon, and Patna can significantly reduce heart-related risks.
For expert consultation, book an appointment with Dr. Sanjay Kumar at Paras Hospital, Gurgaon, or Patna today.