Should I Worry About My Heart Rate?
Hello everyone, I’m a 27-year-old male weighing 300 pounds with a BMI of 41. I’m employed at Amazon where I work four nights a week and typically walk over 15,000 steps during my shifts. Recently, I've become concerned because I’ve noticed that my resting heart rate can drop into the high 50s. I don’t experience any symptoms, but at night while I sleep, it sometimes falls into the mid-50s range. My average resting heart rate seems to be around 60 beats per minute, and I've never received a notification about a low heart rate on my Galaxy Watch 6 before. Occasionally, I observe temporary drops into the 50s which last about a minute before my heart rate returns to 72-75 beats per minute. I also deal with high blood pressure, for which I take Lisinopril 10mg. Compounding the issue, I suffer from a severe health anxiety disorder, and I've been fixating on this concern for nearly a week. Prior to this, I never had any apprehension about having a low heart rate. Do you think this situation warrants concern? At my job, my heart rate can rise to 130 beats per minute, but it typically stabilizes around 100-110 during my shifts. Additionally, I had an EKG performed in March, and the results were excellent. I'd appreciate any insights or thoughts you might have on this matter.
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 7:01:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about changes in your heart rate, especially given your background in health anxiety. However, it's important to recognize that fluctuations in heart rate can occur due to various factors and may not always indicate a serious issue.
Key Points:
- Resting Heart Rate Fluctuations: A resting heart rate in the high 50s to low 60s is generally considered normal, especially for someone active like yourself. Athletes or those who exercise regularly often have lower resting heart rates.
- Healthy EKG Results: Since you had a normal EKG recently, this is reassuring and suggests that your heart is functioning well.
- Impact of Anxiety: Anxiety can significantly impact your perception of physical symptoms, leading to heightened concern about bodily changes.
Explanation:
Your body naturally regulates heart rate based on various factors like activity level, stress, and even hydration. With your active job, your heart is likely well-conditioned. The occasional dips you observe, especially during sleep, are typically not concerning if you do not experience any symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Continue to observe your heart rate trends without fixating on them. Consider keeping a diary of your heart rate along with any activities or symptoms you notice.
- Focus on Overall Health: Ensure you're maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Prioritize activities that can help you manage stress, such as mindfulness or light exercise that you enjoy.
- Consult Your Doctor If Needed: If you experience any new symptoms (e.g., persistent dizziness, palpitations, or significant increases/decreases in heart rate), it would be wise to discuss these with your healthcare provider.
Finally, try to acknowledge your feelings of anxiety without letting them control your thoughts. Consider discussing your worries with a mental health professional who can provide strategies to manage anxiety more effectively. You're taking good care of your health by being mindful, and that’s a positive step in itself!
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