Elevated Resting Heart Rate Concerns
I’m a 20-year-old female residing in New South Wales, Australia, with a medical background that includes mental health disorders and ovarian cysts, but no history of cardiac problems. My weight is approximately 80 kilograms and I stand at a height of 169 centimeters. My mental health challenges include OCD, major depressive disorder, and panic disorder, with past episodes of psychosis. The latest episode officially diagnosed occurred in January 2023. Currently, I'm taking 250mg of clomipramine each morning, reserving the 5mg Valium for when I experience panic attacks, using the latter quite infrequently. In the last week, I've noticed an unusually elevated heart rate whether I’m walking, standing, sitting, or even lying down. With the help of my Apple Watch, I’ve tracked that my heart rate typically ranges from 115 to 125 beats per minute during these episodes. My father has a history of arrhythmia, but aside from that, there’s no significant family history of heart-related issues. The spikes in my heart rate resemble panic attacks, lasting as long as an hour at times. However, I’ve learned to differentiate my anxiety from these heart rate spikes effectively, even if I can’t prevent them. It’s crucial to note that this heightened heart rate is not normal for me outside of experiencing a panic attack, which I am usually able to identify. I haven’t resorted to any medication to manage my heart rate at this point. Unfortunately, my doctors won’t be available until at least August, prompting me to seek advice on what steps I might consider prior to that or if this situation merits immediate medical evaluation. This issue is affecting my professional responsibilities, but I’m hesitant to visit an unfamiliar doctor who might dismiss my concerns as merely panic-induced without providing real assistance. Thank you for taking the time to read my post. UPDATE: I typically have one cup of coffee each day, but I have paused this habit in light of my current symptoms. Additionally, I haven’t consumed any other substances, including alcohol, for about a month now.
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 5:01:29 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a concerning and distressing issue with your elevated heart rate, especially given your background and the timing of recent events. It is important to understand the potential causes of a consistently high resting heart rate and what steps you can take to manage your symptoms until you can see your doctor.
Main Points
- An elevated resting heart rate can stem from various factors, including anxiety, medications, stress, or dehydration.
- Since you have a history of anxiety disorders and experience panic attacks, it is possible that these factors contribute to your elevated heart rate.
- Noting the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle can aid in managing your symptoms.
Explanation
Your heart rate of 115 to 125 beats per minute outside of panic attacks is higher than the typical resting range (usually 60-100 bpm). Given your history, anxiety could indeed be a significant factor, but other elements such as medication side effects (like clomipramine), caffeine intake, or even physical health (hydration or anemia) might also cause this increase in heart rate. Additionally, your father's arrhythmia history could warrant some caution, highlighting the importance of tracking your symptoms.
Next Steps
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Self-Monitoring: Keep tracking your heart rate and note any specific triggers. Write down when the elevated heart rate occurs and any associated symptoms (e.g., dizziness, shortness of breath, etc.).
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Hydration: Ensure you are drinking sufficient water. Dehydration can impact heart rate.
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Manage Caffeine and Stimulants: Since you mentioned having one cup of coffee a day, consider reducing caffeine even further or eliminating it to see if your heart rate improves.
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Breathing Techniques: Practice relaxation and breathing exercises, especially during episodes. Techniques such as deep breathing can help reduce anxiety and potentially lower your heart rate when you feel it spike.
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Physical Activity: Consider gentle physical activities like walking or yoga, which can promote overall heart health and help manage anxiety.
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Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you are getting adequate rest, as stress and fatigue can exacerbate heart rate issues.
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Stay Connected: If your symptoms worsen (for instance, if you experience chest pain, significant shortness of breath, or if the heart rate persists outside of panic episodes), seek immediate help from a healthcare professional—even if it’s with someone new. Your concerns are valid and should be addressed.
While you may feel hesitant about consulting an unfamiliar doctor, it is essential to communicate clearly about your symptoms and experiences.
Remember, your health and comfort matter—prioritizing your well-being is crucial. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further clarification.
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