how to control heart rate - #15458
I am really freaking out here. For the past month I've been noticing my heart rate has been all over the place, like one minute it’s calm and then BAM it spikes out of nowhere. I went for a run last week and my heart rate shot up to 180, and I felt like I was gonna pass out! I’ve read a bunch on how to control heart rate but honestly, nothing seems to stick. The doctor did some tests and said everything looks normal, but it's still super stressful. I've been trying deep breathing and even meditation, but one minute I’m doing great and the next I'm feeling my heart racing again. I drink coffee in moderation, but am I missing something? Do you guys have any advice on how to control heart rate in those freak-out moments? I really don’t want to become that person who's constantly worried about my ticker. Should I be more active or is it more about what I eat? Is there something specific I can do to slow it down when it feels like a rollercoaster? Every little tip would help. Sorry, this is just all jumbled in my head!
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Doctors’ responses
Controlling a fluctuating heart rate can indeed be challenging, especially when it’s causing anxiety. You’re off to a good start with deep breathing and meditation—these are effective techniques in managing stress responses which can influence your heart rate. Additionally, make sure you’re keeping a consistent routine with these practices, as they often require patience and regularity to fully showcase benefits. Given your situation, it might be helpful to monitor lifestyle factors that impact heart rate, like caffeine, sleep, and stress levels. While moderate caffeine might be okay for some, consider temporarily reducing it and observing any changes. Since your tests returned normal, your heart’s responses might be more linked to lifestyle stressors or diet. Staying hydrated and eating balanced meals can contribute towards heart health. When you face those sudden heart rate spikes, try to find a quiet spot to sit and slowly inhale through your nose for a count of four, hold for four seconds, and exhale through your mouth for four seconds, repeating several cycles. Physical activity is beneficial, but make sure it’s aligned with what your body can handle; over-exercising without proper recovery can sometimes increase heart rate irregularities. Consider incorporating aerobic exercises that condition the heart, like walking, swimming, or cycling. These not only improve fitness but also help the heart become more efficient over time, potentially stabilising heart rate fluctuations. Finally, if anxiety about your heart rate persists, it might be helpful to revisit your doctor for further evaluation, or even a second opinion. This is to ensure any underlying conditions are not overlooked or re-emerging. Remember, however, that self-monitoring and altering daily habits are important steps in taking control, but nothing substitutes professional medical advice, particularly in serious or ongoing concerns.
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