“Do I have tachycardia?”
Occasionally, over the last few months, my resting heart rate goes from around 65 bpm to 85 bpm to, sometimes, almost 120 bpm. I'm a 30 year old female, 5'5", 125lbs, exercise almost every day, have a healthy diet, rarely drink alcohol(about once a month), have a cigarette maybe a couple of times a month(I know I shouldn't at all, but the tachycardia does not occur after a cigarette), and I don't feel particular stress or anxiety prior to onset. I drink a couple of cups of coffee in the morning, but it seems to come out of nowhere, usually at night when I'm watching TV before bed. I'll be calm, relaxed, and suddenly I feel my heart POUNDING, check my pulse, and it's 100bpm. My best guess is possible B-12 deficiency? I'm an EMT, so I have basic medical knowledge, but I've dismissed it before because it goes away pretty quickly. However, since it just happened again, I felt like throwing out the question here. A few minutes ago it peaked at 100bpm, and while writing this, it's back down to 80bpm. I think it is getting more frequent- I'm going to start logging when it occurs.
Female | 30 years old
Complaint duration: Intermittent for several months
Medications: None
Conditions: None known
2 Answers
Mark Rasak
Cardiologist
There are many reasons for your rhythm issues. You need a thorough work-up, including labs/5- to 7-day holter/a 2-day echo, etc. Obviously, a thorough history is needed, including what supplements you are on, etc. Vitamin B12 deficiency is not at the top of my list, but would be glad to check levels for you!
It's not abnormal for your heart rate to go to 100 or more for short periods of time. A rate of 100 or greater for prolonged periods is abnormal at rest. You exercise frequently hopefully doing some cardio to train your heart rate. You should stop smoking completely as the effects of cigarettes are cumulative and can affect your heart and lungs for a long time after stopping. If you have no symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, blurry vision, nausea, or vomiting, or headache, then the short periods of tachycardia are benign. B12 deficiency should not cause problems unless you are anemic. If you are still worried, cut out the caffeine as well. Also, make sure you stay hydrated with water, during the day, not only during exercise. When you get the rapid beats, try taking deep breaths, or drinking a glass of water. If you get symptoms, or feel worse, see your doctor. A stress rest might be of benefit at that point.
