Does heart rate increase when having nightmares?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Heart rate generally increases during nightmares. Nightmares are usually associated with factors such as mental tension and excessive stress. When a person is emotionally stressed, blood flow and circulation speed up, often leading to an elevated heart rate, manifesting as rapid heartbeat or palpitations. This is considered normal and is typically unrelated to the heart itself; rather, it results from brain signals triggered during nightmares.
Nightmares generally cause an increased heart rate. The specific analysis is as follows:
Nightmares are usually related to factors such as mental tension and excessive stress. When a person feels anxious, blood flow and circulation speed up, which often leads to an elevated heart rate, manifesting as palpitations or a racing heartbeat. This is considered normal and is typically unrelated to the heart itself. Instead, it results from brain signals during nightmares and usually resolves spontaneously upon waking. If there are no other significant discomforts, there's generally no need for excessive concern. However, if symptoms persist over a long period, one should be cautious about potential heart problems and seek timely medical evaluation with an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assist in diagnosis.
It is recommended to develop healthy lifestyle habits in daily life and engage appropriately in outdoor activities such as hiking or running. Maintaining emotional stability, avoiding excessive anxiety and stress, can help prevent nightmares. Additionally, pay close attention to any symptoms; if abnormal heart rate occurs, promptly visit the cardiology department of a hospital for evaluation and timely treatment to prevent serious complications.
