Why does my heart beat faster when I lie down, and what should I do about it?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
An increased heart rate when lying down may be due to normal physiological reasons, or it could result from pathological causes such as arrhythmia or cardiac neurosis. Besides these common causes, other conditions like hyperthyroidism and heart failure may also be responsible. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital if symptoms are significant, so that the underlying cause can be identified and appropriate treatment provided.
An increased heart rate when lying down may result from normal physiological causes, or it could be due to pathological conditions such as arrhythmia or cardiac neurosis. The specific analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Causes
Consuming stimulating beverages such as strong tea, white liquor, or coffee before bedtime can excite the sympathetic nervous system, leading to an increased heart rate while lying down.
II. Pathological Causes
1. Arrhythmia
This refers to abnormal rhythm and rate of the heartbeat caused by various factors. In sudden-onset arrhythmias, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia may occur, accompanied by symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
2. Cardiac Neurosis
This is a clinical syndrome primarily characterized by cardiovascular symptoms. Patients often experience subjective symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and palpitations during episodes, and some may also have accompanying symptoms like dyspnea and chest pain.
In addition to the above common causes, other possible conditions include hyperthyroidism, heart failure, and coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital if symptoms are significant, so that the underlying cause can be identified and appropriate treatment provided.
