What Causes Recurring Episodes Of Rapid Heart Beat In An Elderly Man?

Posted on Tue, 27 Sep 2016

Question: I have developed a rapid heart beat that lasts for up to 3 or four minutes that will go back to normal of 60 to80 beats with resting for 5 or 10 minutes. They will occur at odd times with no exact activity. I am 83 years with a bout of C/diff 5 weeks ago and still have not totally gotten back all strength. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Palpitations

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns

I am sorry to hear that you have been having episodes of palpitations. These episodes could be benign but they could also be due to atrial fibrillation which will increase your risk of stroke. I would recommend that you see your medical provider and get a work up for palpitations. You will need an EKG and then a Holter monitor. The Holter monitor is a device that will record your every heart beat and hopefully will catch the palpitation.

If during any of these episodes of fast heart beat you develop chest pain or break out in a cold sweat you maybe having a heart attack. If that happens call 911 immediately.

I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar