From the Guidelines
An elevated heart rate can be caused by various factors, including physical exertion, stress, anxiety, fever, dehydration, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, as noted in the 2022 study 1. When considering the potential causes of an elevated heart rate, it's essential to take into account the physiological and pathological factors that can influence heart rate.
- Physiological factors include physical exertion, stress, and anxiety, which can trigger the sympathetic nervous system, releasing adrenaline and increasing heart rate.
- Pathological factors, such as fever, dehydration, anemia, and hyperthyroidism, can also elevate heart rate as the body compensates for decreased oxygen delivery or fights infection, as discussed in the 2016 study 1. Some medications, particularly stimulants, decongestants, and certain antidepressants, can increase heart rate as a side effect.
- Dehydration causes your heart to work harder to maintain blood pressure. If you experience persistent elevated heart rate at rest (above 100 beats per minute, known as tachycardia), especially with symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain, you should seek medical attention as it could indicate an underlying condition requiring treatment, as suggested by the 2003 study 1. It is crucial to identify and address the underlying cause of an elevated heart rate to prevent potential complications and improve quality of life, as emphasized in the 2022 study 1.
From the Research
Causes of Elevated Heart Rate
Elevated heart rate, also known as tachycardia, can be caused by various factors. Some of the possible causes include:
- Hyperthyroidism: a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormones, leading to an increased heart rate 2, 3
- Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis: a condition that occurs in some people with hyperthyroidism, causing muscle weakness and paralysis, and can also lead to an elevated heart rate 2
- Anxiety and stress: can cause an increase in heart rate due to the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline 4
- Certain medications: such as those used to treat hyperthyroidism, can affect heart rate 2, 5
- Cardiovascular disorders: such as hypertension, can also contribute to an elevated heart rate 4, 6
Thyroid Disorders and Heart Rate
Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, can have a significant impact on heart rate. Hyperthyroidism can cause an increased heart rate, while hypothyroidism can cause a decreased heart rate 3, 4. Treatment of thyroid disorders, such as with beta-blockers, can help to regulate heart rate 2, 6.
Treatment of Elevated Heart Rate
Treatment of elevated heart rate depends on the underlying cause. For hyperthyroidism, treatment with beta-blockers, such as atenolol, can help to reduce heart rate 2, 6. For hypertension, treatment with antihypertensive medications, such as ACE-inhibitors or calcium-channel blockers, may be necessary 4. In some cases, a combination of medications may be needed to control both heart rate and blood pressure 6.