Differential Diagnosis for Rapid Heart Beat in the Middle of the Night
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Anxiety or panic attack: This is often a common cause of rapid heartbeat, especially if it occurs in the middle of the night and is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, or feelings of impending doom.
- Other Likely Diagnoses + Sleep apnea: This condition can cause pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to a rapid heartbeat as the body tries to compensate for the lack of oxygen. + Dehydration or electrolyte imbalance: Dehydration or an imbalance of essential electrolytes like potassium or magnesium can disrupt heart function, leading to rapid heartbeat. + Caffeine or nicotine intake: Consuming these substances, especially in large amounts or close to bedtime, can stimulate the heart and cause a rapid heartbeat. + Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, menopause, or pregnancy can lead to rapid heartbeat.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Myocardial infarction (heart attack): Although less common, a heart attack can present with rapid heartbeat, especially in women, and is a medical emergency. + Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot in the lungs can cause rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and shortness of breath, and requires immediate medical attention. + Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation): Certain arrhythmias can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. + Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can cause rapid heartbeat, among other symptoms, and requires medical evaluation.
- Rare Diagnoses + Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodes of rapid heartbeat, hypertension, and sweating. + Thyroid storm: A life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism that can cause rapid heartbeat, fever, and confusion. + Cardiac tamponade: Fluid accumulation in the sac surrounding the heart can compress the heart and lead to rapid heartbeat, although this is typically accompanied by other severe symptoms.