Stress, exercise, or even too much alcohol or caffeine can cause your heart to beat faster than normal. But if your heart races a lot—or if you notice your heartbeat is often irregular—then you should see a doctor.
What causes sudden increase in heart rate?
In tachycardia, an abnormal electrical impulse starting in the upper or lower chambers of the heart causes the heart to beat faster. Tachycardia is the medical term for a heart rate over 100 beats per minute. There are many heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias) that can cause tachycardia.
What to do when heart beat increases?
If you think you're having an attack, try these to get your heartbeat back to normal:
- Breathe deeply. It will help you relax until your palpitations pass.
- Splash your face with cold water. It stimulates a nerve that controls your heart rate.
- Don't panic. Stress and anxiety will make your palpitations worse.
