If you’ve ever been in a doctor’s waiting room, you’ve probably seen medical brochures or posters that detail the warning signs of heart attack or stroke. Symptoms such as crushing chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain spreading down your left arm are common signs. However, something you may not be aware of is that your heart rate can change significantly during a heart attack. Depending on the person, it can either speed up or slow down. Dr. James Udelson, chief of cardiology at Tufts Medical Center, explains that while heart attacks typically make your heart beat faster, they can also slow things down in certain instances. Here, we’ll explore how a heart attack can impact your heart rate, recognize other signs to be aware of, and determine when it’s necessary to seek medical help to protect your heart.
First, how does an ‘abnormal’ heart rate compare to a ‘normal’ heart rate?
A typical resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute according to the American Heart Association (AHA). Factors such as age, level of physical activity, and overall health can affect what is considered a “normal” heart rate. If you are a serious athlete, your resting heart rate may be lower, around 40 bpm, due to being in good physical condition. Your resting heart rate may also be lower if you take beta blockers, or higher if you’ve consumed caffeine or engaged in physical activity. A resting heart rate below 60 bpm or consistently higher than 100 bpm can be dangerous, so pay attention to other symptoms you may be experiencing and seek medical help immediately.
How does your heart rate change during a heart attack?
During a heart attack, your heart rate can fluctuate. Dr. Udelson explains that it generally increases due to pain and stress, as the body releases adrenaline, raising heart rate. There aren’t typically underlying conditions that would cause heart rate changes during a heart attack. However, in rare cases, a heart attack can cause the heart rate to slow down, particularly if it affects an artery on the right side of the heart that feeds the main pacemaker of the heart. Heart rate can also fluctuate based on the type of heart attack, such as STEMI, NSTEMI, or coronary spasm.
What other signs should you look for during a heart attack?
In addition to changes in heart rate or blood pressure, other symptoms of a heart attack include chest pressure, shortness of breath, pain in the left side of the body, fatigue, nausea, and sweating. If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, especially if they have high-risk factors for heart attacks, it’s important to call 911 for immediate medical attention.
When should you go to the Emergency Room?
If you are experiencing severe, persistent chest pain or any symptoms that may indicate a heart attack, do not hesitate to call 911. Seeking treatment quickly can minimize damage to the heart and increase your chances of a full recovery. It’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart attacks and seek medical care when needed.
FAQ
What is the timeline of a heart attack?
Some heart attacks occur suddenly without warning, while others may cause symptoms for days or weeks leading up to the event. The outcome of a heart attack depends on how quickly a person receives treatment. Opening the blocked artery in the hospital is crucial to restoring blood flow to the heart and preserving heart muscle strength.
What should you never do during a heart attack?
When experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, it’s essential to call for emergency medical assistance immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to serious consequences, including irreversible heart damage or even death. Seek help as soon as symptoms occur to ensure the best possible outcome.
