A common cold can make your heart beat faster, a frequent and often normal response as your body works to fight off infection. While an elevated heart rate during a cold is usually not a cause for concern, there are specific situations where it might warrant medical attention.
How Illness Affects Heart Rate
When a cold or infection enters the body, the immune system activates its defenses, which requires increased metabolic activity. This means the heart works harder to supply more oxygen and nutrients to tissues, leading to an increased heart rate. The body’s immune response also involves inflammation, and inflammatory mediators signal the heart to pump more blood to aid in this response.
Fever, a common symptom of many infections, directly contributes to an elevated heart rate. For every 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) increase in body temperature, the heart rate can rise by approximately 10 beats per minute as the heart works to regulate the increased body temperature. The body also releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol when sick. These activate the sympathetic nervous system, prompting the heart to beat faster and stronger.
Additional Factors Influencing Heart Rate
Beyond the direct immune response, several other common factors can contribute to an elevated heart rate during a cold. Dehydration, often accompanying illness due to reduced fluid intake, vomiting, or diarrhea, decreases blood volume. The heart then compensates by pumping faster to maintain blood pressure and ensure adequate blood flow to organs. This extra effort can also lead to palpitations.
Certain over-the-counter cold medications can also influence heart rate. Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, work by constricting blood vessels to relieve congestion. However, these medications can also stimulate the heart, causing it to beat faster. Pseudoephedrine, in particular, may cause a slight increase in heart rate.
General body stress and anxiety associated with being sick can also elevate heart rate. The body’s “fight or flight” response, triggered by stress, involves the release of hormones like adrenaline, which directly increases heart rate. Even without a direct physical cause, the psychological burden of illness can contribute to a faster heartbeat.
When to Consult a Doctor
While an increased heart rate during a cold is often normal, certain signs indicate that medical attention might be necessary. If your resting heart rate consistently stays above 100-120 beats per minute for an extended period, even after fever reduction, seek medical guidance. A normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
Other concerning symptoms that warrant a doctor’s visit include shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting spells. Severe weakness or fluttering sensations in the chest also signal a need for professional assessment. If the heart rate does not return to its normal range after the cold symptoms subside, or if you have underlying heart conditions, consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation.
Tips for Managing Your Heart Rate
Managing an elevated heart rate while experiencing a cold involves several practical self-care measures. Adequate rest is important, as it allows your body to conserve energy and focus on recovery, reducing strain on your cardiovascular system. Staying well-hydrated is crucial to prevent dehydration, which can force your heart to work harder. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain blood volume and supports overall bodily functions.
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, as these can further increase heart rate and interfere with hydration. When selecting over-the-counter cold medications, consider non-stimulating alternatives if possible, especially if you are sensitive to decongestants or have pre-existing heart conditions. Listening to your body’s signals and avoiding strenuous activities until fully recovered can also help in managing heart rate during illness.