A fast heartbeat of over 100 beats per minute can happen for various reasons, including drug reactions, alcohol, stress, and some health conditions. If the cause is unclear, the heart may seem to beat fast for no reason.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the average adult has a resting heartbeat of about
Most causes of rapid heartbeat are not dangerous. However, a faster-than-usual heartbeat can be a symptom of an underlying health problem.
This article looks at what can cause a person’s heart to beat faster, treatments, and when to see a doctor.
When the body experiences stress, the adrenal glands release epinephrine, or adrenaline. The body has two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney.
The body uses epinephrine to prepare a person for immediate action. Epinephrine can cause a person to experience:
- increased blood pressure
- increased heart rate
- enlarged pupils
- palpitations, where the heart rate can increase, decrease, or feel like it has skipped a beat
- sweating
- anxiety
A person who experiences stressful emotions regularly may be at risk of developing certain conditions. The American Psychological Association (APA) note that chronic stress can increase a person’s chances of developing certain conditions, such as:
Treatment
Generally, a person should find that their heart rate decreases once they no longer feel stress.
A person may be able to manage their stress
- exercising regularly
- engaging in relaxing activities, such as meditation or massage
- prioritizing sleep
- speaking to friends and family for emotional support or help
- talking with a doctor or healthcare provider
Substances that can cause a person’s heartbeat to speed up include:
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant found in many drinks, such as coffee, tea, certain sodas, and energy drinks. Caffeine powder is also available as a dietary supplement.
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that an adult could have up to
A person who has too much caffeine may experience:
Alcohol
According to a 2022 meta-analysis of over 10 million participants, even a small amount of alcohol can increase a person’s chances of developing atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation causes a person’s heart to beat irregularly and sometimes abnormally fast.
A 2020 study, mostly involving male participants, found that consuming large amounts of alcohol decreases blood pressure for around 12 hours after consumption. However, after 13 hours, blood pressure tends to increase.
Nicotine
Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical found in cigarettes. It can cause
According to the AHA, vaping or smoking can cause an increase in a person’s heart rate of around
Illegal stimulants
Illegal stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can cause a person to have a higher heart rate.
Doctors sometimes use amphetamines to treat people with ADHD or narcolepsy. However, amphetamines can cause a series of side effects,
Certain medications
According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), certain medications can cause a person to have an irregular heartbeat. These medications include:
- inhalers
- high blood pressure medication
- antihistamines
- antifungal medication
- antidepressants
- antibiotics
Treatment
A person who experiences an increased heart rate due to caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or illegal stimulants should try reducing the amount they consume.
If a person is dependent on a particular drug, they should consider speaking with a healthcare professional or counselor to discuss treatment options.
If a person has a rapid heart rate after taking certain medications substances, they can speak with their doctor who may be able to prescribe an alternative medication.
An increase in heart rate may occur during pregnancy. This can happen because the heart has to pump blood to the placenta and around the body.
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Additionally, once a person goes through menopause, they have an increased risk of coronary heart disease. The British Heart Foundation notes that a person in the postmenopausal phase of their life may feel that their heart is racing.
Treatment
A person who is pregnant or postmenopausal should speak with their doctor if they are concerned about their increased heart rate.
Electrolytes are minerals and salts in a person’s blood. Electrolytes help conduct electrical impulses around a person’s body.
A person who has an imbalance of electrolytes may notice they have an increased heart rate.
Treatment
A doctor can perform an electrolyte test to diagnose an electrolyte imbalance. An electrolyte test checks the levels of electrolytes in a person’s blood. Based on the abnormal electrolyte levels, the doctor can then recommend treatment.
A fast heart rate is not usually a cause for concern. However, it may indicate that a person has an underlying health problem. Health problems that can cause a rapid heart rate include:
- overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- low blood sugar
- types of anemia
- postural or orthostatic hypotension, which is dizziness or low blood pressure caused by changing position
- fever
- dehydration
A person should speak with a doctor if:
- they have a history of heart problems
- their increased heart rate goes on for a long time or gets worse
- their increased heart rate is causing them concern
A person should seek immediate medical attention if they experience:
- shortness of breath
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- fainting
- blackouts
- tightness in their chest
- chest pain
A person can experience an increased heart rate for many reasons, including stress, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine use, or underlying health conditions.
If a person is concerned about their fast heart rate, they should speak with a doctor. They should seek immediate medical help if they experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or other serious symptoms.