COVID-19 emerged as a global health challenge, affecting individuals with a wide range of symptoms. Beyond respiratory concerns, some people experience heart-related issues, including an elevated heart rate. This article explores the connection between COVID-19 infection and tachycardia, shedding light on the mechanisms involved and when medical attention becomes necessary.
Understanding Tachycardia
Tachycardia refers to a heart rate that is faster than the normal resting rate. For adults, a typical resting heart rate falls between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). A heart rate consistently exceeding 100 bpm at rest is considered tachycardia. This rapid beating can prevent the heart chambers from adequately filling with blood between contractions, potentially reducing the blood and oxygen supplied to the body’s cells.
Individuals experiencing tachycardia may have various sensations or symptoms. These can include a racing or pounding heart, often described as palpitations. Other symptoms might involve shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, or even chest pain. Some people with tachycardia might not experience any noticeable symptoms, with the condition only being discovered during a medical examination.
How COVID-19 Affects Heart Rate
COVID-19 can lead to an increased heart rate through several different pathways within the body. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, may directly affect heart muscle cells. This direct impact can potentially cause myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle. Such inflammation can disrupt the heart’s normal electrical signals and pumping ability, contributing to a faster heart rate.
The body’s immune response to COVID-19 often involves widespread inflammation, sometimes referred to as a cytokine storm. This inflammation can place stress on the cardiovascular system. The release of inflammatory molecules can directly influence heart function, leading to an elevated heart rate.
COVID-19 can also disrupt the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary functions like heart rate. The infection can overactivate the sympathetic nervous system, the “fight-or-flight” response, which increases heart rate. This imbalance can contribute to heart rate irregularities.
Prolonged illness and inactivity associated with COVID-19 can result in physical deconditioning. Deconditioning causes the cardiovascular system to become less efficient, leading to a faster heart rate even with minimal exertion. This effect can persist after the acute phase of the illness.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical evaluation if an elevated heart rate is accompanied by persistent chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or significant dizziness. These symptoms indicate a serious cardiac issue requiring immediate medical attention.
Consult a healthcare professional if new or worsening heart rate symptoms develop after a COVID-19 infection. A doctor can determine the cause of the tachycardia. Diagnosis often involves tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or wearable monitors like a Holter monitor. Blood tests may also check for infection, thyroid issues, or electrolyte imbalances that could contribute to a fast heart rate.
Persistent Heart Rate Changes After COVID-19
Heart rate changes can persist for weeks or months following acute COVID-19 infection, a phenomenon often observed in “Long COVID.” These lingering cardiovascular issues can impact daily life.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition identified in people with persistent heart rate changes after COVID-19. POTS is characterized by an increase in heart rate when moving from lying or sitting to standing, often with dizziness, lightheadedness, and fatigue. Research indicates an association between Long COVID and POTS, with many Long COVID patients meeting POTS diagnostic criteria. The exact mechanisms for post-COVID POTS are being investigated, including viral damage to the autonomic nervous system or an autoimmune response. Medical evaluation and management are important for individuals experiencing these persistent symptoms.