Lifestyle Factors That Fuel a Racing Heart

Most people will experience a racing heart from time to time. A little nervousness or too many cups of coffee can be enough to trigger heart palpitations. But if you’re regularly experiencing that fast, fluttery heartbeat, it’s probably time to pay attention. 

We can help. As specialists in heart palpitations, David Bolon, MD, and our team at Manhattan Integrative Cardiovascular work with you to figure out what’s causing that racing heart. Our office in Midtown East Manhattan, New York City, offers a wide range of tests — like an echocardiogram — to assess your heart and get to the root of that irregular heartbeat. 

In many cases, lifestyle factors play a role. Here’s a look at a few choices you might be making that could contribute to a racing heart.

#1: Not managing stress or anxiety

Stress is a part of most peoples’ lives, but that doesn’t mean you should simply let it play out. Left unchecked, persistent stress often leads to health issues like high blood pressure, which can heighten your risk for a heart attack or stroke. 

If you work a high-stress job or are in a particularly stressful season, you can use proven stress management techniques to help. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has some practical tips. 

Similarly, anxiety can cause a racing heart, along with myriad other symptoms that negatively affect your life. Talk to a medical professional if you regularly feel a pervasive sense of worry. Anxiety is a diagnosable, treatable health condition. 

#2: Consuming stimulants

Stimulants can make your heart beat faster and harder. One of the most common culprits is caffeine. While a cup or two of coffee shouldn’t send your heart racing, drinks with a lot of caffeine — like that quad shot latte or energy drink — can contribute to heart palpitations.

Some other stimulants that could be to blame include:

• Amphetamines
• Certain herbal or nutritional supplements
• Cold/cough medicines with pseudoephedrine
• Cocaine
• Nicotine

If you’re consuming any of these substances and your heart has been racing, try cutting out the stimulant for about a week to see if it makes a difference. 

#3: Strenuous exercise

Exercise generally raises your heart rate. And regular exercise is good for your heart. 

After you finish working out, your heartbeat should slow, though. If it doesn’t, it’s time to see a doctor. 

When to see Dr. Bolon

While your racing heart could be a fleeting, harmless sensation, it could also indicate a heart condition. Make an appointment with Dr. Bolon if:

• You’re getting heart palpitations regularly
• Your racing heart prevents you from sleeping or otherwise negatively affects you
• You have a health condition that heightens your risk for heart problems (e.g., diabetes)
• You have a family history of heart problems

You should also come to see us if you have other symptoms with your racing heart, like:

• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating

If you’re concerned about your racing heart, don’t hesitate to call our team at (716) 303-4738 or book your appointment online today.