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how to control heart beat rate
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #14269
46 days ago
95

how to control heart beat rate - #14269

Aayan

I am a bit worried about my heart situation. Lately, I've noticed my heart beat rate spikes outta nowhere, like when I'm just sitting on the couch watching TV or even when I’m sleeping! Seriously, one night I woke up and my heart was racing way too fast. Called my doc, and he said it could just be stress, but these random heart beat rate surges are starting to freak me out. I did some Googling, and found all these different ideas on how to control heart beat rate, like breathing techniques or staying hydrated. I tried drinking more water and it seemed to help a little, but I'm unsure if I'm just imagining it. Also, I’ve read about exercise being good for the heart, but what if it makes my heart rate go even higher? It’s like all this advice is swirling around in my head and I'm not sure what actually works. If I wanted to control my heart beat rate during those crazy times, what are the best methods? Should I be avoiding caffeine altogether, or is that just overkill? I really want to get this under control because it’s bothering me a lot. It's like I'm hearing it in my head more than I should! Any tips or experiences would help a ton!

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Doctors’ responses

Experiencing sudden increases in heart rate, known as palpitations, can be unsettling, so let’s break down some practical steps you can consider. Firstly, since stress is a common culprit, managing it through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises might be beneficial. You could try quickly sitting in a quiet space and taking slow, deep breaths — inhale through your nose, hold it for a couple of seconds, and exhale through your mouth slowly. Sometimes, this alone can help in calming that racing heart. Another effective technique is staying hydrated; while it seems simple, dehydration can contribute to increased heart rate, so ensure you maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day.

Regarding caffeine, it might be worth observing how your body reacts to it by trying to limit consumption. Some people find that even small amounts can significantly affect their heart’s rhythm. You don’t have to go cold turkey immediately - a gradual reduction might be easier and will let you see if it makes a difference. Regular physical activity is generally recommended for cardiovascular health, but start with moderate, less intense exercises like walking or light jogging, based on your comfort level, to see how your heart rate responds. Record any particularly strenuous symptoms and discuss with your healthcare provider, especially if this happens frequently — this could sometimes indicate underlying conditions like arrhythmias that may need medical intervention. Lastly, also keeping an eye on your diet by emphasizing heart-healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can support your well-being overall. If you continue experiencing troublesome symptoms, consider asking your doctor about a Holter monitor or similar tests to track your heart rate over a longer period and help pinpoint any specific issues.

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