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Can Stress Cause A Rapid Heart Beat?

Posted on Tue, 13 May 2014

Question: Can stress cause a rapid heart beat? I have no signs when I exercise or walk I am not out of breath. My feet are not swelling. I had an EKG and it was determined I had a rapid heart beat. when I was 14 years old I had rheumatic fever, the doctor said there was a slight murmur in the heart. Could this be the result of the rapid heart beat?

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Should exclude cardiac problems of rheumatic fever Detailed Answer: Hi, Stress can be a possible cause to rapid heart beat. However, apart stress, I suggest to do a cardiac echo to exclude damages of the heart by rheumatic fever. If everything is ok, then, your rapid heart beat is due to stress. Hope it answered to your query! Let me know if you need further assistance! Dr.Benard

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Benard Shehu (3 days later)

I have received your answer,but could a rapid heart beat be due to blocklage in Arteries.if so wht is the next step after stress test.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (2 days later)

Brief Answer: Rapid heart beat not caused by arteries blockage Detailed Answer: Hi back, Thank you for following up. No, a rapid heart beat cannot be due to blockage in arteries. If stress test is ok, then, there is no need for further tests. On contrary, if anything abnormal will be shown in the stress test, then, angiography and cardiac ct-scan are advised for further evaluation. Hope it answered your queries at your satisfaction! All the best! Dr.Benard

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar