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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Sudden Increase In Heart Beats Followed By Numbness In Chest?

Hello, I am a 21 year old male who just woke up with rapid heartbeat for the first time. I literally thought i was going to die... the night before i had alot of beer and tabacco... I also think i have a bit of stress or anxiety. I think this is a wake-up call for me to quit smoking for good. Any advice you can give me will be much appreacited. The rapid heartbeat lasted only for 30-60 seconds (which felt like days) shortly after my chest and upper left arm was slightly numb... I immediately got a cold class of water to drink and went online to search for answers which lead me to this website. My heartbeat has returned to normal since.
Fri, 31 Aug 2018
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Cardiologist,  's  Response
Hi,



This can be a cardiac arrhythmia like atrial fibrillation, in which heart rate suddenly goes up and also suddenly decreases. This can happen with alcohol intake. Blood pressure falls during these episodes and one has dizziness, fainting, blackouts, sometimes syncope.



Usually, ECG is normal as it is usually done in between the episodes. ECG done during episodes will show abnormality. You will need 24 hour Holter monitoring only if symptoms are recurring or expected to recur next time to ascertain the cause. Don't consume too much of alcohol and get one ECHO done.



Hope I have answered your query.

Let me know if I can assist you further.
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What Causes Sudden Increase In Heart Beats Followed By Numbness In Chest?

Hi, This can be a cardiac arrhythmia like atrial fibrillation, in which heart rate suddenly goes up and also suddenly decreases. This can happen with alcohol intake. Blood pressure falls during these episodes and one has dizziness, fainting, blackouts, sometimes syncope. Usually, ECG is normal as it is usually done in between the episodes. ECG done during episodes will show abnormality. You will need 24 hour Holter monitoring only if symptoms are recurring or expected to recur next time to ascertain the cause. Don t consume too much of alcohol and get one ECHO done. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.