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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Increase In Heart Rate?

Hi! while running an EKG on a patient i notice that when he he inhales deeply his heart rate increases for a moment. when he exhales i notice that his heart rate increases a little at first but then goes back down. how do i interpret these findings? help
Fri, 31 Aug 2018
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Internal Medicine Specialist 's  Response
HHi,

Typically the heart rate will increase during inspiration due to stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system during this time, and the heart rate will decrease during expiration due to stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system.

The rhythmic change in heart rate can be attributed to varying levels of the neurotransmitters acetocholine (sympathetic) and norepinephrine (parasympathetic) at nerve endings. It is normal phenomenon so don't worry. Many other causes for increased heart rate like atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter or intake of caffeine or alcohol.

Hyperthyroidism or hypovolemia, etc. Until examination is done it is difficult to say what it is. Please consult your cardiologist he will examine and treat you accordingly.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,     
Dr. Penchila Prasad Kandikattu
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Cardiologist Dr. Sagar Makode's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

This is normal phenomenon and is called as sinus arrhythmia. Heart rate increases with inspiration and decreases with expiration. So its normal.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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What Causes Increase In Heart Rate?

HHi, Typically the heart rate will increase during inspiration due to stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system during this time, and the heart rate will decrease during expiration due to stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system. The rhythmic change in heart rate can be attributed to varying levels of the neurotransmitters acetocholine (sympathetic) and norepinephrine (parasympathetic) at nerve endings. It is normal phenomenon so don t worry. Many other causes for increased heart rate like atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter or intake of caffeine or alcohol. Hyperthyroidism or hypovolemia, etc. Until examination is done it is difficult to say what it is. Please consult your cardiologist he will examine and treat you accordingly. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Penchila Prasad Kandikattu