Sudden high pulse rate and dizziness

[Hephzibar]

Good morning all!

A question about sudden dizziness and high pulse rate. Apologies for the long post!!

This happened on two days ago out of the blue - I felt as if I was going to collapse and felt awful, but managed to get upstairs to husband who took by BP 170/100 P 130. It subsided after a couple of minutes, but felt very shaky afterwards. 111 sent me for emergency GP appt and have been referred to TIA clinic, but no neurological symptoms. Bloods done and ECG was fine yesterday. I have a history of palpitations and fast heart rate and had an episode/ panic attack last year - holter test showed a few episodes of SVT and ectopics and echo showed no major issues. B/P and pulse are now within my normal range, but have been prescribed aspirin, bisoprolol and atorvastatin. Also throw into the mix are tension headaches ( which have been worse recently) and an enlarged and grumbling gallbladder which on the waiting list to be removed!! Still feeling a bit rundown today, but am anxious!!!

GP is not sure if it is a TIA, but can sudden increase in pulse cause feeling of collapse? Need to have a clear head and questions when I attend the clinic tomorrow!

Thank you all

[RufusScamp]

That sounds rather unpleasant. The best thing I can suggest is that you make a list of questions before you go, and if you can, a list of symptoms and dates when they occurred. It's good that you got an appointment so quickly. I hope all goes well.

[Hephzibar in reply to RufusScamp]

Thanks for your reply and advice! Will start on my list of dates/symptoms/ questions,Fingers crossed for tomorrow!

[Dazza11]

Read your post with great intrigue, I have had almost identical scenarios over the last couple of years and as to yet have not been able to receive a medical reason for these instances ( I guess there is some comfort in that) Mine normally occur late evening, with an odd sensation, feel dizzy, heart beat feels like it’s vibrating out my body, sometimes feel sick. My BP gets to 150/95 but hr is like 110. Levels that are medically high but shouldn’t be causing the feeling I have.

During the episodes I take my ecg which shows no Afib and normally the symptoms disappear within 30 mins, however I do then feel pretty rough ( fatigued, nausea) for next 24-48 hours.

I’ve had every test under the sun to no conclusion ( not a HA, stroke, etc)

Anxiety was mentioned, I truly didn’t believe this, and still don’t, I have a fantastic life and no stress at all.

I hope you get some better clarity than I have managed, but will be keen to hear the feedback you receive.

Best of luck

[Hephzibar in reply to Dazza11]

Hi Dazza11, Just reporting back from my clinic visit today. Eyes tested on route to hospital and eye health good (Gp was concerned regarding my high B/P )ECG fine , carotid arteries scanned and are clear and as no neurological symptoms during episode so TIA and stroke were ruled out. B/P and pulse have now returned to my normal so advised to stop taking the Aspirin and Bisoprolol.

Dr said that it was likely to be pre syncope , so I will just make sure I keep well hydrated etc!! Fingers crossed!!

[Dazza11 in reply to Hephzibar]

Very similar to my situation then, lots of positives in that it’s not cardiac, but doesn’t solve the problem! Pre syncope is an interesting suggestion, seems a bit random but appreciate they are the expert. Have you had any tests to check your kidney function? This is one possibility they looked into for me, although mine was clear.

Best of luck, be good to keep in touch to hear of any developments.

[Hephzibar in reply to Dazza11]

Evening Dazza11! As I felt that I was going to collapse/faint the possible diagnosis of pre syncope is a possibility so will just have to see how it all pans out. Pleased that carotid arteries were all clear tho. Still waiting for the GP to get back to me regarding blood tests, but if there is a problem they will straight through to me. Any further updates and I will ping a message through. All the best for you as well!

[Buckntilly]

Hi Hephzibar, had so similar experience, but had swollen legs and breathlessness into the bargain!! Diagnosed with heart failure and atrial fibrulation!! Lucky me!! But tho I have trouble walking uphill, even gentle slopes, I’m getting on with life and feel quite good most of the time. At 75 I’m pleased to be doing all sorts, just not running marathons(YET!!)