Why do heartbeat

Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical found in cigarettes. According to the AHA, nicotine can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate. Illegal stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can cause a person to have a higher heart rate.

Research from found that people who use cocaine were more likely to experience irregular or increased heart rates. Doctors sometimes use amphetamines to treat people who have ADHD or narcolepsy.

However, amphetamines can cause a series of side effects, including :. Learn more about amphetamines here. These medications include:. Find out more about the causes of heart palpitations here. Bitter orange: People might use bitter orange for heartburn, nasal congestion, weight loss, appetite suppression or stimulation, and athletic performance.

Certain studies state that it can cause rapid heartbeat; however, the results were inconclusive. Valerian: Valerian is a supplement used for anxiety, insomnia, depression, premenstrual syndrome, headache, and menstrual issues.

Side effects of taking valerian can include heart disturbances, such as a rapid heartbeat, headache, upset stomach, uneasiness, excitability, mental dullness, and insomnia. Ginseng: Ginseng is promoted as a general tonic to improve wellbeing. However, ginseng has side effects that can include increased heartbeat, insomnia, menstrual problems, breast pain, headache, digestive problems, and high or low blood pressure.

Learn which supplements can lower blood pressure here. 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 to a healthcare worker or counselor to discuss treatment options. If a person has a rapid heart rate after taking certain medications or supplements, they can speak to their doctor to see if there is an alternative medication they can take.

Learn more about drug abuse here. 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. The same study also found that the average heart rate increased throughout pregnancy. 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.

Learn more about hormonal imbalance here. A person who is pregnant or postmenopausal should speak with their doctor if they are concerned about their increased heart rate. A high sodium diet can lead to serious health conditions like hypertension, h For many, the condition shows little to no symptoms but may lead to complications including strok If medications and lifestyle changes are still not improving your atrial fibrillation symptoms, it may be time to consider a surgical option.

Cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jared Bunch discusses cardiac ablation to treat A-f On this episode of Seven Questions for a Specialist, cardiologist Dr. John Ryan answers what he thinks is the best—and worst—thing you can do for your heart, why he chose to specialize in cardiology and what advancem If you find your heart suddenly racing, is that cause for concern?

Whether to worry or not depends on other symptoms and how long the racing lasts. Emergency room physician Dr. Troy Madsen talks about some potentially se Varicose veins can appear as we get older, seem unsightly, and also be quite painful.

If you experience varicose veins that are uncomfortable and interrupting your everyday life, it may be time to consult your doctor. Call or Request an Appointment Refer a Patient. What Causes a Racing Heart? These can include the following: heavy exercise stress, fear, anxiety, or panic attacks low blood sugar or low blood pressure fevers, anemia, and dehydration pregnancy or menstruation too much alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine illegal drugs like ecstasy, methamphetamines, or cocaine If you notice that your heart is beating faster than normal, look for obvious explanations first: Are you stressed out?

Have you had more caffeine than usual? Is your blood sugar low? Every heartbeat results in blood moving forward through your arteries. You can feel this movement as a 'pulse' by placing two fingers over the artery of your wrist.

Your pulse rate tells you how fast your heart is beating. This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change.