Sudden increase in heartrate. Shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, tiredness, numbness, tingling. Suggestions?

Hi,
Thank you for the query.

It is possible that you may be having an abnormal rapid rhythm of the heart (tachycardia). Sometimes, a normal increase in the heart rate due to physiological reasons also can happen. Stress/anxiety/fear etc can also lead to palpitations. It is also important to consider certain other conditions where there may be increased heart rate with increased blood pressure due to over secretion of some hormones (eg: pheochromocytoma).

You need to document your pulse rate during this episode. If it is more than 100/minute and less than 150/minute, it may be a normal increase due to physiological reasons or stress/anxiety or even a panic attack. If the heart rate is very high (180 - 200/minute or above), it is likely to be abnormal and needs further evaluation.

If it is possible to take an ECG during the episode, it would readily point to the diagnosis. If the episodes are very short-lived but occur daily, you can get a 24 hour Holter monitoring done to achieve a diagnosis.

I hope this answers your query.
With regards,
DR RS VARMA
Consultant Interventional Cardiologist