A high pulse, or elevated heart rate, can stem from various factors. It's not always a cause for immediate alarm, as many non-cardiac issues can increase your heart rate. A normal resting pulse rate generally falls between 60 and 100 beats per minute (BPM). Anything above this can be considered elevated, depending on individual factors and circumstances.
Common Causes of a High Pulse
Several factors commonly contribute to a rapid heartbeat:
- Fever: A fever elevates your body temperature, causing your heart to beat faster to compensate. [Source: Harvard Health, GoodRx, Hackensack Meridian Health]
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood, forcing your heart to work harder to supply your body with oxygen. [Source: Harvard Health]
- Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism): An overactive thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to increased metabolism and a faster heart rate. [Source: Harvard Health]
- Caffeine and Stimulants: Excessive consumption of caffeine or stimulants like decongestants can stimulate your nervous system, resulting in a faster heartbeat. [Source: Harvard Health]
- Stress and Anxiety: Stressful situations trigger the release of adrenaline, a hormone that increases heart rate. [Source: Medical News Today, Hackensack Meridian Health, GoodRx]
- Exercise: During physical activity, your heart rate naturally increases to meet your body's heightened oxygen demands. [Source: BHF, GoodRx]
When to See a Doctor
While many factors can cause a temporarily elevated pulse, consistently high resting heart rates (above 100 BPM) warrant a visit to your physician. [Source: WebMD] This is especially important if the elevated heart rate is accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath. A doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
A high heart rate is often called tachycardia. [Source: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic]
