Fast heartbeat

[ewusia28]

I'm 5 weeks after covid. Sometimes I get palpitations and a rapid heartbeat and a strange feeling in my chest, it worries me a lot. I thought it was because of my asthma. But I guess that's not it. Did any of you do the same? Will it pass? Thanks for all the answers?

[Glty]

Hi ewusia, heart rate issues can be a sign of lots of things and are quite common after covid. I'd suggest getting in touch with your gp next week to rule out complications or 111 over the weekend if you think you need advice before then. Obviously don't hesitate to call 999 if it's really bad or you have other worrying symptoms.

Things that help my post covid heart issues are focusing on taking regular short periods of complete rest through the day (20-30 min lying flat with no phone, no reading etc), good nutrition, staying well hydrated, sleeping well and pacing myself with all mental and physical exertion. Meditation, yoga nidra and gentle belly breathing are also helpful if your chest is up for it and the focus on breathing doesn't add to the worry. Try not to push yourself too hard, your body needs time to recover.

[ewusia28 in reply to Glty]

Thank you. I have an appointment with the doctor on Tuesday. I hope it helps me. I am very worried. I wish you health.

[Poobah]

Hi Ewusia. I'm sorry you've had to battle covid and are now still having horrible symptoms. The NHS has published guidance on what to expect and when to contact your doctor. It does say if you're having certain symptoms more than 4 weeks after covid to contact your doctor. All the details are in this link, nhs.uk/conditions/coronavir...

Wishing you a full recovery very soon. Take care.

[twinkly29]

Yes absolutely common with covid, straight after covid and probably in long covid too.

[Bmco]

Hi, they think I have long covid and possible interactions with gastritis too. My heart rate is much faster than normal, just getting dressed it goes up to 110. The consultant I saw said she thinks it’s because I am quite breathless - a matter of limited space in your body and things just having to work harder. Apparently tachycardia is also known to happen after a virus. However, I did have an ECG and a CT.

I would say, contact your doctor to talk it through (or 111 or 999 if really worried). I bought a Fitbit so I could be a bit clearer in my own mind of when it was happening and work out if anything triggered.

I’ve found it to be a vicious circle as I know worrying about it makes it faster! But talking to a medical professional should help and they can rule out other things.

Be kind to yourself and rest where possible xx

[ewusia28 in reply to Bmco]

Thank you. I have an appointment with the doctor on Tuesday. I hope it helps me. I am very worried. I wish you health.