The blood pressure and heart rate are closely related to each other, often having a two-way impact. If the blood pressure increases or decreases, it can lead to abnormal heart rate patterns. At the same time, blood pressure disorders can also be associated with various heart issues, and vice versa. Among these conditions, high blood pressure with a rapid heart rate is a matter of concern for many patients.
Why does high blood pressure cause a rapid heart rate?
A person is considered to have an ideal blood pressure when the systolic pressure (HATT) is at 120mmHg and the diastolic pressure (HATTr) is at 80mmHg. As for heart rate, in healthy adults, when the body is at rest, the heart beats 60-100 times per minute, which is considered normal.
In practice, for healthy individuals, only in situations of extreme stress, fatigue, anxiety, or excessive physical activity will the heart rate increase. Even in such cases, the heart rate can double, but the blood pressure in healthy individuals usually remains stable and does not change significantly (in a few cases, it might slightly increase). Therefore, while blood pressure and heart rate are related, it cannot be conclusively stated that a rapid heart rate is indicative of high or low blood pressure; a medical examination is required to determine an accurate conclusion.
On the other hand, for patients who already have cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure can cause a rapid heart rate. The reason is that when blood pressure is high, the heart muscle has to contract more forcefully to overcome the resistance of the arterial walls. This condition, if prolonged, leads to the thickening of the heart muscle and changes in the heart’s structure, gradually causing a series of issues related to the conduction system within the heart, resulting in a rapid heart rate, most commonly seen as atrial fibrillation.
High blood pressure with a rapid heart rate is a relatively dangerous condition, posing a threat of heart failure and various health complications. Therefore, when encountering this phenomenon, it is essential for each person to proactively seek medical attention to undergo a thorough examination and avoid complications related to stroke, coronary artery disease, and other heart-related problems.
Factors that cause high blood pressure with a rapid heart rate
Blood pressure and heart rate always undergo certain fluctuations depending on individual physiology, and they are not fixed at a specific level. With the condition of high blood pressure and a rapid heart rate, the underlying causes may arise from the following issues:
Due to medical conditions
Individuals with underlying medical conditions often experience disruptions in their blood pressure and heart rate readings. Depending on the state of the illness and individual physiology, blood pressure and heart rate can have certain variations. Typically, a patient with unstable blood pressure will also have irregular heart rate patterns.
Due to physical condition
In overweight or obese individuals, blood pressure and heart rate tend to be higher than normal. Conversely, in the underweight or weak population, blood pressure tends to be lower. These are signs indicating health imbalances, indicating the need for early intervention.
Being overweight or obese is also a cause of high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat.
Due to lifestyle habits
Daily habits significantly impact blood pressure and heart rate. If someone regularly smokes, consumes stimulants, alcohol, or coffee, their blood pressure will consistently be higher than normal, and consequently, their heart rate may also exceed standard thresholds.
Unhealthy lifestyle practices
Lack of regular exercise, an unbalanced diet, excessive consumption of fatty foods, fast food, etc., are primary factors contributing to high blood pressure with a rapid heart rate. Therefore, engaging in regular physical exercise is the best preventive measure for such conditions.
How is high blood pressure with a rapid heart rate treated?
Typically, patients with high blood pressure are encouraged to adjust their diet and lifestyle to control episodes of elevated blood pressure. However, in cases where complications have occurred, along with signs of heart failure due to the rapid heart rate, medication is used for treatment.
The use of medication must be prescribed by a doctor.
Specifically, medications that stabilize heart rhythm, such as Quinidine, Procainamide (Procanbid), or Amiodarone, are often prescribed. The appropriate medication will be determined based on the individual condition of each patient.
Note: The mentioned medications are for reference only, and patients should not purchase or use them without proper guidance from a doctor.
Preventing High Blood Pressure and Rapid Heartbeat Complications
For patients with hypertension, regular monitoring of vital signs is crucial. Additionally, measuring heart rate and timely intervention can help mitigate complications caused by high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat.
Here are some measures to stabilize blood pressure and control heart rate effectively:
- Regularly measure blood pressure to maintain it within safe thresholds.
- When experiencing irregular heartbeats or rapid heart rates, practice deep breathing and slow exhalation. Splashing cold water on the face may also help to feel more at ease.
- Engage in moderate physical activities and exercise within one’s capacity to improve overall health and boost immunity.
- Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet, ensure adequate rest, engage in stress-relieving activities, and find ways to relax the mind.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and stimulants to improve blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular complications.
- Schedule regular medical check-ups to monitor blood pressure and heart rate and take prompt action if any abnormalities occur.
Regularly measure blood pressure.
High blood pressure and rapid heartbeat serve as warning signs of potential health risks if not addressed timely. Patients with hypertension should actively monitor their blood pressure and heart rate to implement effective preventive measures. Neglecting these indicators can lead to severe complications caused by high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat.
John Alen was born in 1971 and is a doctor in the healthcare and psychology fields with many years of experience. He is currently working at easyhealthylive.com, a leading health and psychology blog. Having studied at Y1 National Medical University named after IM Sechenov, John Alen is using his knowledge and experience to help improve the physical and mental health of people in the United States.
