A racing heart during pregnancy is normal due to the common physiological changes during this period with the aim of providing oxygen and nutrients to the baby, and is more common in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Therefore, it is normal for the heart to beat faster, with an increase in heart rate at rest, so that there is adequate blood flow for the woman and the baby. See more about heart rate.
It is important for women to be aware of the appearance of some associated symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and chest pain, as in these cases the racing heart may be indicative of more serious cardiac changes, and it is important for women to consult their doctor so that treatment can be carried out. diagnosed and started treatment to promote your health and that of your baby.
Main causes
The main causes of a racing heart during pregnancy are:
- Emotion and anxiety for childbirth;
- Excessive caffeine consumption;
- Heart changes due to a previous pregnancy;
- Heart problems, such as atherosclerosis or pulmonary hypertension;
- Reaction to any medication you are taking;
- High pressure;
- Thyroid changes.
A racing heart is normal during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, when the baby is already more developed and needs greater amounts of oxygen and nutrients.
Increased heart rate is more common in women over 40 years of age, who are sedentary and/or smokers, who do not have adequate nutrition or who have gained a lot of weight during pregnancy. These situations put even more strain on the heart, increase the heart rate and can cause complications for the woman and the baby.
How to confirm
A racing heart during pregnancy must be confirmed by a cardiologist or obstetrician by evaluating the signs and symptoms presented by the woman, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, palpitations and dizziness. In addition, the doctor may recommend tests that evaluate the heart, such as a 24-hour Holter monitor and an echocardiogram.
It is important that before becoming pregnant, a woman undergoes a check-up doctor to check the health of your heart and, in case of changes, you can take care during pregnancy and follow the doctor’s recommendations.
Make an appointment with your nearest doctor for an assessment:
Taking care of your health has never been easier!
What to do
As in most cases a racing heart is normal, the doctor normally does not recommend any type of treatment, especially because the heart rate returns to normal after birth.
However, in some situations, especially when the woman presents other signs or symptoms or has already been diagnosed with cardiac changes, the doctor may recommend rest and the use of some medications to alleviate symptoms and regulate the heart rhythm, and it is important that they are used according to medical advice.
Furthermore, to prevent the heart from speeding up too much or the risk of developing other changes, it is important that women acquire healthy habits during pregnancy, practicing physical activity, avoiding the consumption of foods and drinks with caffeine and having a healthy diet. .
