Very often the fast heartbeat that happens at night is harmless and goes away on its own. But in some cases, it can be a sign of a serious illness. According to doctors, in most cases, rapid heartbeat occurs under the influence of strong emotions, stress, anxiety or excessive use of stimulants. Women also often experience a faster heartbeat during pregnancy.
But waking up in the middle of the night from a rapid heartbeat is quite unpleasant and even frightening. Why does this happen? Doctors indicate the most common reasons why a person can wake up at night with a strong heartbeat:
• Anxiety, stress, panic attacks. Severe anxiety causes the release of certain hormones - specifically cortisol, which increases blood pressure. It also increases the heart rate. A person with a "pounding" heart at night can be suspected of having a panic attack or a sudden and strong fear.
• Too much alcohol. Drunkenness can cause dehydration, which impairs the ability of heart muscle tissue to function normally. This leads to tachycardia.
• Excessive caffeine. A person may not realize it and not realize that he takes in a lot of caffeine a day, which is a natural stimulant. It is found in coffee, cocoa, tea, sodas, energy cans and drinks. In large amounts, caffeine causes rapid heartbeat, anxiety, nervousness.
• Use of sugar and carbohydrates before sleep. This can provoke a sharp increase in the level of glucose in the blood and as a response of the body - the release of a significant dose of the hormone insulin. This process can be perceived by the body as stress: in this state, substances are released that cause an increased heartbeat. In addition, high blood sugar can provoke sweating and headaches.
• Medicines. Some medicines, for example cough and cold medicines, contain components that have a stimulating effect. They are able to affect the work of the myocardium. And also drugs for the therapy of hypothyroidism, asthma - they can also cause a temporary disturbance of the heart rhythm.
• Peculiarities of the female organism. Menopause, pregnancy, certain phases of the menstrual cycle provoke a sharp increase in the level of certain hormones, which can cause rapid heartbeat.
• Heart disease. The heart rhythm is increased or disturbed also due to some diseases:
- fluttering arrhythmia;
- heart failure;
- heart valve diseases.
All these disorders are accompanied by a high risk of dangerous complications, including heart attack and stroke. Examination, treatment and observation by a specialist are mandatory for them.
Here's when you have reason to worry: If, in addition to palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, chest pains also occur, then immediately call "Ambulance".
Regarding treatment: Serious treatment may not be necessary. Changing your lifestyle is often enough. But if, despite he althy habits and reduced stress, nighttime palpitations continue, your doctor will prescribe medication.
