The effect of tachycardia on pregnancy: health of mother and child. Rapid heartbeat during pregnancy: what to do if your heart beats for two

Tachycardia is an increase in heart rate (HR) above normal. This condition often occurs in pregnant women. The main reason is that the cardiovascular system is subject to increased stress. This arises due to the need to maintain adequate blood circulation in the expectant mother and fetus. Changes in the functioning of the heart sometimes provoke disruptions in its functioning, which leads to tachycardia.

A pathological change in heart rate, in addition to unpleasant sensations, can negatively affect the health of the unborn child. In particular, this condition is dangerous due to complications such as premature birth or miscarriage. Timely treatment of pathological tachycardia is the key to the health of mother and child.

Causes of tachycardia during pregnancy

There are a lot of factors and body conditions that cause an increase in heart rate. The main ones are the following:

1. Allergic reactions to various drugs used by the expectant mother.
2. Excess body weight that occurs during pregnancy.
3. Inflammatory diseases of organs that occur due to a decrease in the immunity of a woman’s body.
4. Complications of pregnancy (placental abruption, threats of miscarriage, bleeding, toxicosis).
5. Changes in the functioning of the nervous system.
6. Physical displacement of the heart due to the gravid uterus pushing all the abdominal organs up toward the diaphragm.

All the reasons for the increase in heart rate during pregnancy are not known. The only fact that has been proven is that the cause of tachycardia is an increased level of adrenal hormones, which causes a rise in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate. During pregnancy, even small physical activities force a woman to use significant effort to complete them. This is also the cause of tachycardia.

Symptoms

Many women do not pay attention and do not attach importance to the symptoms associated with tachycardia. On the one hand, this is correct, however, with frequent attacks of unexplained changes in health status, it is still necessary to be wary. A slight increase in heart rate during pregnancy is normal. This is due to an increase in the volume of blood passing through the heart and the need to enrich it with oxygen.

Dangerous symptoms of tachycardia during pregnancy, for which consultation with a specialist is required, are:

• frequent dizziness;
• vomiting and changes in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract in the form of diarrhea or constipation;
• numbness of body parts;
• pain in the heart area.

Tachycardia in early pregnancy

To eliminate an attack of tachycardia in the early stages of pregnancy, you need to calm down and relax. To do this, it is recommended to close your eyes and slowly take deep breaths and exhales for several minutes. If this procedure is ineffective, then the woman is prescribed sedatives of herbal origin.

Tachycardia in late pregnancy

Towards the end of pregnancy, tachycardia appears in almost everyone. The leading cause of its occurrence is displacement of the heart due to the high location of the uterus. This condition is not pathological and does not require any correction.

In later stages, tachycardia may appear while taking medications. This is dangerous due to the possibility of premature birth. Often, rapid heartbeat occurs when using vasoconstrictor drugs to treat a runny nose.

At the end of pregnancy, medications have a lesser effect on the fetus, however, even in this case, for the treatment of persistent tachycardia, preference is given to herbal preparations.

Paroxysmal tachycardia during pregnancy

This condition is characterized by a sharp increase in heart rate. At the same time, the heart makes from 130 to 200 contractions per minute. Paroxysmal tachycardia is characterized by a paroxysmal course. In this case, quite often the heart rate drops to normal on its own without taking medications.

During pregnancy, paroxysmal tachycardia may have the following symptoms:

• noise in ears;
• severe dizziness up to complete loss of consciousness;
• general weakness and decreased blood pressure;
• difficulty breathing, pain and strange sensations in the heart area;
• nausea and loss of coordination.

Diagnostics

In addition, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is required to determine the type of tachycardia. Sometimes Doppler ultrasound is prescribed. Echocardiography or ultrasound examines the heart valves and chambers of the heart.

After receiving all the diagnostic results, the doctor makes a decision to prescribe the most effective drug, but with minimal impact on the unborn child.

First aid for tachycardia and principles of its treatment in pregnant women

Due to the fact that the main cause of tachycardia that occurs during pregnancy is neuropsychic stress, first aid is to relax the woman. Enough rest and sleep. With a long-term course of constant rapid heartbeat, it is important to exclude all provoking factors. It is necessary to reduce the consumption of coffee and strong tea to a minimum.

Due to the fact that in the first months of pregnancy, tachycardia appears due to increased hormonal levels, to prevent an increase in heart rate, it is advisable to take sedatives. In the last stages, vitamins and minerals are effective. This is due to increased fetal growth and an increased need for nutrients. In particular, we are talking about preparations containing potassium and magnesium. Any measures aimed at improving a woman’s health can normalize the cardiac activity of the expectant mother. In addition to the above, proper nutrition during pregnancy is very important.

Prevention of tachycardia and its complications during pregnancy

To prevent tachycardia, quite often it is enough to simply normalize the woman’s activity regimen. To do this, in addition to adequate rest and regular walks in the fresh air, it is important to control your own weight. From the very beginning of pregnancy, you can begin to perform special sets of physical exercises to keep your body in good shape.

Some types of tachycardia can cause loss of consciousness. Therefore, it is important to learn and implement certain techniques to prevent fainting. These include the following activities:

• go out into fresh air or provide increased access to it;
• moisten your face and neck with water;
• take the maximum possible horizontal position (sit down or lie down).

Forecast

The danger of changes in cardiac activity in the form of an increase in heart rate depends on a number of factors. These include:

• age of the pregnant woman;
• gestational age;
• the presence of cardiac pathology.

In the latter case, the development of supraventricular tachycardia is possible, which can have an extremely negative impact on the future health of the mother. If the tachycardia is physiological, then the prognosis is generally favorable.

Any long-term tachycardia should alert the expectant mother. Frequent attacks also imply the need for medical diagnosis of the pathology. Thus, we can say that tachycardia during pregnancy in most cases is physiological, does not require special treatment and has a favorable prognosis.

Tachycardia during pregnancy is just one of the ailments that befall a pregnant woman. During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes rapid and serious changes. Almost all organs and systems are forced to work in enhanced mode. Some organs are compressed, while others are overstretched. Over 9 months, hormonal levels change several times. Pregnancy is a kind of test. A healthy woman can withstand it with minimal losses, but a weakened body can suffer more.

But all pregnant women experience unpleasant ailments in any case. Some women experience heart palpitations for the first time in their lives during pregnancy. This scares them because it is not clear how dangerous it is and what to do about it.

Tachycardia during pregnancy

A rapid heartbeat is called tachycardia. A pregnant woman may suddenly feel that her heart begins to beat much faster. With tachycardia, the heart can contract 90 times per minute. After some short time, the heart calms down, as if nothing had happened. In this case, the woman may not experience any unpleasant sensations, except fear. Tachycardia often accompanies diseases of the cardiovascular system. But in pregnant women it can appear in the absence of pathologies. Due to the increasing load on the heart, the rhythm of contractions can gradually increase. By the 6th month, the heart rate increases by 15-20 beats per minute. In the third trimester, the load on the body is maximum.

There are sinus and paroxysmal tachycardia. Sinus tachycardia occurs in the absence of pathologies. It can appear as a result of stress, after physical activity, or for no apparent reason. Such attacks of tachycardia during pregnancy are considered a completely normal condition and do not require treatment. Although sometimes sinus tachycardia during pregnancy can be a harbinger of heart failure.

With paroxysmal tachycardia, attacks of increased heart rate are associated with disturbances in the functioning of the heart muscle. Depending on the type of disorder, paroxysmal tachycardia is divided into ventricular and supraventricular.

Causes of tachycardia

With the help of a rapid heartbeat, the body can compensate for the lack of oxygen and nutrients in the fetus.

Intensive blood circulation allows you to quickly deliver to the child everything necessary for his development.

The cause of increased heart rate may be high levels of hormones.

Adding a third (placental) circulation increases the load on the heart and makes it work more actively.

Women who have gained many pounds during pregnancy are more likely to experience attacks of sinus tachycardia.

Malaise can be triggered by accelerated metabolism, anemia, hypotension or a stressful situation.

The position of the fetus in the third trimester can put pressure on the heart, interfering with its healthy functioning.

Drinking alcohol creates additional stress on the heart muscle. In such cases, tachycardia also often develops.

The cause of tachycardia in a pregnant woman may also be a disease of the cardiovascular system.

Tachycardia as a sign of disease

Sometimes the heartbeat can be very intense, the beats per minute can reach 120. The woman may feel weak, headache, dizziness and nausea. Numbness in various parts of the body, chest pain and vomiting may occur.

There are cases of blue skin. If a pregnant woman has such an attack, she should definitely consult a doctor. It is advisable to remain under medical supervision until the end of pregnancy.

You need to be wary if the attacks are not aggravated by ailments, but are repeated too often and last a long time. Such symptoms may indicate heart problems.

An alarming sign is tachycardia in the first months of pregnancy. Especially in cases where attacks are accompanied by other unpleasant sensations. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor.

It is not recommended for women whose tachycardia is caused by health problems to give birth naturally.

Behavior of a pregnant woman during attacks of tachycardia

A woman shouldn't worry. Relatives and friends should reassure the pregnant woman. Sinus tachycardia does not pose a threat to health.

The pulse returns on its own within a few minutes. If this is paroxysmal tachycardia, then anxiety can intensify the symptoms and worsen the woman’s condition.

The woman is advised to sit down or, if the situation allows, to lie down. Relax as much as possible. This will calm the heart.

It is advisable to be in the fresh air or open the windows of the room.

Deep and calm breathing will help normalize your heart rate.

If possible, concentrate on something pleasant and calming.

If alarming symptoms appear during an attack, you must call an ambulance.

Treatment of illness

If the pregnant woman does not have any heart disease, treatment is carried out with the help of sedatives and vitamins. As a rule, vitamin complexes with a high content of potassium and magnesium are prescribed.

If this condition is not treated, the pregnant woman may experience nervousness, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Tachycardia may be a sign of fetal starvation. If left untreated, the baby may not receive enough necessary substances. Therefore, the problem cannot be ignored. Even with mild and short-term attacks of tachycardia, a pregnant woman needs to pay attention to her daily routine and diet. The expectant mother needs to walk more, preferably in the morning, when the air is cleaner. If possible, go out into nature, into the forest. Review your diet. Balance it so that it contains all the necessary vitamins and microelements. Do not cook heavy, difficult-to-digest foods. Don't eat much at night.

If there is the slightest suspicion of pathology of the cardiovascular system, the doctor will prescribe an electrocardiogram, ultrasound of the heart and other studies of the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Your doctor may also order a blood test to determine your hormone levels.

During the examination, the pregnant woman will be asked to go to the hospital. In a hospital setting, it is easier to prevent the development of pathologies and it is easier to provide timely medical care during attacks.

A woman should not refuse, as there is a threat to the health of the mother and child. After all, if the disease exists, it will develop rapidly. The attacks will become more frequent and stronger. As a result, numerous complications can arise that seriously injure the cardiovascular system.

Over time, heart defects may develop. The baby suffers from health problems of the mother. Mother's diseases negatively affect intrauterine development and can complicate the birth process.

Prevention of tachycardia

Understanding that pregnancy is a burden for the body, it is necessary to prepare for it in advance. It is advisable to undergo a preventive examination at a clinic several months before your planned pregnancy and find out your health status. If any diseases or predispositions are identified, it is recommended to restore health as much as possible.

During pregnancy, you must inform your gynecologist about all health problems. The doctor can prescribe preventative treatment that will prevent the disease from developing during pregnancy.

From the first months of pregnancy you need to do therapeutic exercises. Strictly control weight gain. It is very useful for pregnant women to swim in the pool. This kind of physical activity will help keep your body in good physical shape. Swimming also calms the nervous system and relaxes, and has a slight hardening effect. Regular walks in the park or forest are helpful.

Many pregnant women try to combine a career and bearing a child.

An intense work schedule, stress and lack of sleep can damage the health of both mother and child. A woman needs to give up ambitions for a while and devote time to herself and the baby. Good health of mother and newborn will be the best reward.

Cardiologist

Higher education:

Cardiologist

Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after. HM. Berbekova, Faculty of Medicine (KBSU)

Level of education – Specialist

Additional education:

"Cardiology"

State educational institution "Institute for Advanced Medical Studies" of the Ministry of Health and Social Development of Chuvashia

Immediately after conception, changes begin to occur in a woman’s body. Internal organs begin to function more actively. The heavy load falls primarily on the heart. During pregnancy, changes in hormonal levels occur repeatedly. Paroxysmal and sinus tachycardia are not uncommon during pregnancy. Irregular heart rhythm scares many women, but is it worth worrying about? What to do if seizures occur?

Characteristic features of tachycardia in pregnant women

Tachycardia is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by rapid heartbeat. During pregnancy, women often experience similar disturbances in the body. In 1 minute, the heart can contract up to 90 times, after which everything can return to normal in just a couple of minutes. During pregnancy, tachycardia does not cause pain, but only fear. What pathological processes can such disorders be associated with? How to understand what form of tachycardia we are talking about?

The development of tachycardia occurs in the presence of any disturbances in the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. In a pregnant woman, similar changes in the body can occur in the absence of pathological disorders. In this case, the heart rate increases gradually - by the 6th month of gestation, the rhythm increases to 15-20 beats per minute. This condition causes a number of symptoms that frighten many women.

During pregnancy, as a rule, 2 forms of the disease occur:

• Sinus form of tachycardia. Develops in the absence of pathological processes. Sinus tachycardia in pregnant women can appear without physiological reasons, due to physical activity or due to stressful situations. This form of the disease is considered normal and does not require drug correction. Sinus tachycardia during pregnancy can act as a precursor to serious disorders in the body - heart failure.
• Paroxysmal form of tachycardia. Accompanied by an increase in cardiac activity, which occurs against the background of myocardial dysfunction.

What causes sinus tachycardia?

Tachycardia during pregnancy develops against the background of a lack of nutrients and oxygen. Increased hormonal levels can also affect heartbeat processes.

With the development of the embryo, dramatic changes occur in the woman’s body: a 3rd circle of blood circulation is added, which increases the load on the myocardium. Weight gain can also trigger the development of sinus tachycardia.

Pathological causes of tachycardia in pregnant women:

• anemia, increased body temperature and fever;
• endocrine system disorders;
• pneumonia, asthma and bronchitis;
• toxicosis, uterine bleeding.

Any cardiac or vascular dysfunction is accompanied by cardiac arrhythmia. That is why diagnosis and treatment of such deviations must be carried out in a timely manner. this eliminates the risk of developing health and life-threatening complications.

Tachycardia and pathological disorders

The appearance of tachycardia during pregnancy may indicate the development of pathological disorders in a woman’s body. The heart rate may become very intense: 120 beats or more. This is accompanied by the appearance of severe weakness, characteristic pain in the chest area, numbness of the limbs, dizziness, nausea and single vomiting.

In severe cases, the skin turns blue. Such symptoms require immediate medical correction. In this case, the pregnant woman should remain under the constant supervision of specialists until childbirth or until the body is completely restored.

If tachycardia develops during pregnancy, childbirth is not carried out naturally. A caesarean section is used to deliver a baby.

Is sinus tachycardia dangerous?

Sinus tachycardia develops extremely rarely during pregnancy. If minor disturbances occur, it is recommended to simply eliminate the factor that provokes it or take strengthening measures.

If attacks of tachycardia occur frequently at the very beginning of pregnancy, it is recommended to consult an experienced specialist for a comprehensive examination. Such measures make it possible to prevent the progression of vascular and cardiac pathologies.

In the later stages of pregnancy, tachycardia develops in almost every woman. This occurs due to the fact that the uterus increases in size and compresses the internal organs, disrupting blood circulation in the body.

Why is tachycardia dangerous? This condition can cause bleeding and the onset of premature labor. Rapid heart rate worsens a woman’s quality of life and causes severe discomfort. If no measures are taken in time. After pregnancy, such violations will not go away without leaving a trace. If tachycardia is associated with cardiovascular pathologies, then there are risks of intrauterine death of the child and the mother herself.

A slight increase in heart rate is not dangerous, but if the heart rate exceeds 120 beats per minute, then treatment is necessary.

Establishing diagnosis

If attacks of sinus tachycardia recur during pregnancy, then the woman needs treatment. Before carrying out drug correction, a comprehensive examination is mandatory.

Among the main diagnostic procedures used to detect tachycardia are:

• Gynecological and laboratory examination. These measures are necessary to confirm pregnancy and determine its timing. The gynecologist identifies existing pathologies and establishes the level of hemoglobin and red blood cells.
• Carrying out Doppler examination and electrocardiogram. Diagnostic procedures are necessary to determine heartbeats.
• Carrying out echocardiography or ultrasound examination of the heart. These tests determine the functioning of the heart valves. Cardiac and vascular systems, help identify heart defects and other chronic disorders.
• Referral to consultation of highly specialized specialists. The woman must be examined by a cardiologist and an endocrinologist.

The results of the diagnostic studies allow us to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe effective drug treatment, if necessary. When choosing medications, the specialist takes into account not only the indications and condition of the woman’s body. Treatment of tachycardia is prescribed taking into account the duration of pregnancy.

How should a woman behave during an attack?

Is it possible to cope with attacks on your own if you have tachycardia? The first thing you need to do is calm down and remember that during the first attacks there is no threat to the child. Within a few minutes the pulse will recover on its own. If we are talking about the paroxysmal form of the disease, then with excitement. As a rule, there is a sharp deterioration in health. This requires immediate medical attention.

In order for the condition to normalize, it is recommended to sit down or lie down, if the situation allows it. Maximum relaxation improves a woman’s condition and normalizes the processes occurring in the body. A flow of fresh air and calm, deep breathing help restore your heart rate.

What measures should be taken for sinus tachycardia?

Drug correction is prescribed in accordance with the existing causes of heart rhythm disturbances. Most often, taking medications is not necessary. To normalize the condition, it is enough for a woman to get enough sleep, rest and eliminate stress. If attacks of tachycardia occur frequently, then drug correction is indispensable.

Treatment of sinus tachycardia is aimed primarily at eliminating the cause of the disease. It is mandatory to take measures to normalize the woman’s condition and prevent the development of repeated attacks.

To restore normal heart rhythm, the following measures are taken:

• At the very beginning after conception, a woman should be provided with complete peace of mind. Heart rhythm disturbances during these periods occur due to changes in hormonal levels. Treatment of sinus tachycardia is carried out using natural sedatives (motherwort, valerian). As a rule, this is enough. If necessary, medications are prescribed whose effectiveness is aimed at restoring immunity (rose hips, hawthorn).
• Starting from the 3rd month of pregnancy, similar measures are taken to eliminate heart rhythm disturbances. To improve the condition, a woman is recommended to lead an active lifestyle: take daily walks in the fresh air and perform light exercise.
• At 6-9 months, sinus tachycardia reaches its maximum. Treatment is carried out using various sedatives and vitamin-mineral complexes.

Before using medications, a woman must consult with an experienced specialist. Otherwise, dangerous complications may develop for both mother and child.

Chicory helps during pregnancy, as it quickly restores heart rhythm and normalizes a woman’s condition. This product is not contraindicated for a child in moderate quantities.

In order to exclude the possibility of developing sinus tachycardia, a woman must undergo a comprehensive examination before becoming pregnant. If there are any deviations from the norm, there is a need for drug therapy. Otherwise, every pregnant woman risks developing heart problems during pregnancy. Despite the fact that sinus tachycardia does not pose a serious danger. Such a condition should not be left unattended.

Tachycardia during pregnancy is an increased heart rate that causes discomfort and pain in the expectant mother. Let's consider the main causes of this pathology in pregnant women, methods of diagnosis, treatment and prognosis for recovery.

Normal heart rate is within 60-90 contractions, but if this figure exceeds the norm, then we are talking about tachycardia. Pregnancy is a rather crucial moment in a woman’s life. And this is not surprising, since at this moment the body experiences increased stress. The cardiovascular system, which is the most important organ in the body, does double duty. A malfunction of this system leads to an increase in heart rate, which is a very common occurrence during pregnancy.

Tachycardia during pregnancy is a pathological condition that causes concern in a woman, but the most dangerous thing is that it negatively affects the full development of the fetus. Palpitations must be treated as this symptom can lead to premature labor or miscarriage. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment are the key to a calm pregnancy, the happiness of the mother and the health of the child.

ICD-10 code

R00.0 Tachycardia, unspecified

Causes of tachycardia during pregnancy

The reasons are varied and depend on many factors. Let's consider the main reasons for rapid heartbeat in expectant mothers:

• Overweight and obesity.
• Anemia.
• Allergic reactions to vitamin preparations for pregnant women and various medications.
• Diseases of the thyroid gland, which are accompanied by increased production of thyroid hormones.
• Bronchial asthma.
• Infectious and inflammatory lesions of the lungs and other respiratory organs.
• Changes in the position of the heart due to the growth of the uterus and reflex pressure on the vessels, displacement of the abdominal organs and pressure on the diaphragm.
• Severe bleeding during ectopic pregnancy, various injuries and premature placental abruption.
• Dehydration and exhaustion of the body due to toxicosis, accompanied by repeated vomiting.
• A sharp increase in body temperature (heart rate increases by 10-12 beats with each degree of temperature).
• Increased excitability of the nervous system, anxiety, frequent stress.
• Diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system (heart failure, heart attack).
• Infections, sepsis, trauma.
• Bad habits and drug overdose.

The causes of tachycardia during pregnancy are not fully understood. The main factor causing increased heart rate is the high content of adrenal hormones, which increase the heart rate. At rest, a pregnant woman does not have a rapid heartbeat, and the heart rate does not exceed normal. But with physical activity this figure increases by 10-20 contractions.

Symptoms of tachycardia during pregnancy

Many women ignore the symptoms of tachycardia during pregnancy and consider them not dangerous. At first glance, mild attacks do not pose a threat, but if such a condition occurs frequently and is prolonged, then it is necessary to seek medical help. A rapid heartbeat during pregnancy is considered a physiological norm. Due to the increase in heart rate, the volume of blood transferred increases, thanks to which the unborn child receives oxygen and the nutrients necessary for full development. With the help of this mechanism, the baby grows and develops normally in the mother's womb even in the last stages of the gestational period.

But there are a number of symptoms that should cause concern in the expectant mother. Let's look at the main signs of tachycardia during pregnancy:

• Nausea and vomiting, gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, constipation).
• Dizziness, fainting.
• Numbness of any parts of the body.
• Painful sensations in the chest and around the heart.
• Increased anxiety, irritability, nervousness.
• Frequent fatigue, general ailments, drowsiness.

Sinus tachycardia during pregnancy

It is characterized by sinus rhythm with a heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute. The sinus node is located in the wall of the right atrium. Very often, this form of supraventricular tachyarrhythmia is a sign of metabolic disorders, diseases, or side effects of medications. Pregnancy is also one of the factors that provokes this pathology.

This type of tachycardia can be pathological and physiological. The first occurs due to pathologies of the sinus node, and the second is an adaptive reaction. Symptoms depend on the presence of concomitant diseases of the cardiovascular system. If a woman has left ventricular dysfunction or heart disease, then during pregnancy this will cause supraventricular tachyarrhythmia, chest pain, shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat.

The main causes and factors causing sinus tachycardia during pregnancy:

• Double load on the cardiovascular system.
• Pathological diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system.
• Restructuring of organs and systems of the maternal body due to the influence of hormones and the developing fetus.
• Increased metabolism.
• Compression of the heart and other organs due to fetal growth.
• Intensive functioning of the vital organs of the mother, ensuring the development of the fetus.

The rapid heartbeat may be more pronounced in the last trimester, since during this period the fetus is practically formed and vital processes are quite intense. A woman may experience nausea, vomiting, chest pain and other symptoms. The danger is a regular increase in heart rate, which is accompanied by prolonged attacks.

If tachycardia is not caused by organic pathologies of the heart, then it can be eliminated with the help of sedative medications. If therapy is not carried out on time, the pregnant woman may develop sleep disturbances, anxiety, and the protective properties of the immune system are reduced. Rapid heartbeat can turn into persistent arrhythmia and lead to pressure drops.

Tachycardia in early pregnancy

Tachycardia in early pregnancy occurs very rarely and, as a rule, appears due to various provoking factors. Physical activity, anxiety, bad habits, hormonal changes are among the factors that cause rapid heartbeat. If rapid tachycardia appeared from the first weeks of pregnancy and is permanent, then the pathology can be caused by chronic diseases or lesions of the cardiovascular system.

Tachycardia in the first trimester should cause concern, as it may indicate pathological processes in the body. Consider cases of palpitations that require medical attention:

• During an attack, your health deteriorates greatly, anxiety and pain appear.
• Nausea and dizziness appear.
• If the heart skips beats during attacks, this indicates paroxysmal tachycardia, which requires immediate medical attention.

In order to eliminate a mild attack of tachycardia in the early stages of pregnancy, you need to relax as much as possible. The woman is recommended to take a comfortable position, lie down or sit, close her eyes for a couple of minutes, slowly inhale and exhale. Very often, rapid heartbeat in early pregnancy occurs due to hormonal changes in the mother’s body. In this case, to treat attacks, the woman is prescribed herbal-based sedatives, which allow her to remain calm and not feel discomfort due to natural processes in the body.

Tachycardia in late pregnancy

Tachycardia occurs in every woman in late pregnancy. The main reason for heart palpitations is the growth and increase in size of the fetus. In the last trimester, the fundus of the growing uterus can displace the heart, which leads to disturbances in its rhythm and an increase in heart rate. In this case, a rapid heartbeat is a completely natural process that you should not be afraid of.

• Tachycardia may appear due to the bad habits of the expectant mother, for example, smoking and drinking caffeine-containing drinks.
• Particular attention is required when taking any medications in the last months of pregnancy. The thing is that many drugs cause increased heart rate and can lead to bleeding and premature birth. For example, the well-known drops for the common cold Naphthyzin can provoke an attack of tachycardia in a pregnant woman.

A rapid heartbeat is considered dangerous when the heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute at rest. The woman feels pain in the heart area and discomfort. For treatment, relaxation therapy and safe preparations with herbal ingredients are used.

Paroxysmal tachycardia during pregnancy

It is a pathological condition in which heart contractions are at the level of 140-200 beats per minute. The duration of the attack can be from several seconds to several hours, or even days. The pathology occurs due to the appearance of a focus of excitation in one of the conducting parts of the heart, which generates electrical impulses. The lesion may appear in the ventricles or cells of the atrial conduction system. Based on this, tachycardia can be ventricular or atrial.

Paroxysmal tachycardia depends on the source of the lesion. The paroxysm begins unexpectedly and also passes unexpectedly. The main symptoms of paroxysmal tachycardia during pregnancy:

• Rapid heartbeat 140-220 beats per minute against a background of weakness and general malaise.
• Dizziness, tinnitus, fainting.
• Neurological symptoms of paroxysmal attacks.
• Decreased blood pressure and weakness against this background.
• Discomfort and pain in the chest area, a feeling of constriction of the heart.
• Sweating, nausea, flatulence and other manifestations of autonomic dysfunction.
• After an attack, a woman may experience increased urine production, that is, polyuria. Urine has low density and is light or clear in color.

If the symptoms described above appear, you should seek medical help or call an ambulance. Ventricular paroxysmal tachycardia occurs due to pathologies of the cardiovascular system, for example, myocarditis, myocardial infarction or intoxication caused by medications. This condition is dangerous for both the woman and her unborn child.

With atrial paroxysmal tachycardia, rapid heart rate is not the only symptom. The cause of the pathology is oxygen starvation of the heart muscle, endocrine disorders and other disorders. A woman experiences pain in the chest area, in some cases, a feeling of shortness of breath, chills, excessive urination, and a feeling of lack of air.

Treatment requires qualified medical care. As a rule, during the gestation period, therapy is carried out with the safest drugs possible, but after childbirth, surgical intervention is possible.

Attacks of tachycardia during pregnancy

Attacks of tachycardia during pregnancy can occur both in the first months of gestation and in the last trimester. The attacks are accompanied by characteristic symptoms: paroxysmal increases in heart rate, chest pain, general weakness, dizziness, lack of air.

Attacks occur due to stress, overwork, lack of sleep. Low blood sugar levels, an overactive thyroid gland, high blood pressure and myocarditis are also causes of heart palpitations.

There are a number of reasons that provoke the appearance of an attack of tachycardia, and the symptoms allow timely identification and elimination of rapid heartbeat.

• If trembling of the limbs appears during an attack, the cause of the pathology may be stress, the use of medications, or the wrong choice of medications.
• If after attacks a pregnant woman loses body weight, the reason may be hormonal changes in the body or treatment with hormonal drugs.
• An increase in heart rate accompanied by increased sweating occurs due to excessive caffeine consumption. If nervous excitability appears, the pregnant woman needs to reduce physical activity and avoid stress and nervous situations.

An attack is characterized by a pulse rate of more than 120-150 beats per minute. To eliminate pathology, you must use special techniques:

• Take a deep breath and hold your breath for a couple of seconds, then exhale slowly. Deep breathing helps normalize an elevated heart rate.
• Take a comfortable position, lie down or sit, and try to relax as much as possible.
• In some cases, a strong cough or artificially induced vomiting helps stop the attack.
• Taking sedative medications such as Corvalol and Valocordin help eliminate palpitations.
• A cold compress on the face can help relieve heart palpitations. If possible, it is recommended to immerse your face in ice water for 1-2 seconds, this will normalize your pulse.

Severe tachycardia during pregnancy

Severe tachycardia during pregnancy is a sign of serious pathological processes in a woman’s body. Severe attacks of rapid heartbeat cause dizziness, nausea, weakness, fainting and other unpleasant and even painful symptoms.

This pathology requires medical attention, as without proper treatment it can lead to serious consequences. A rapid heartbeat increases the risk of complications during the birth process. Due to a constant increase in heart rate, premature labor may develop. If severe attacks accompany a woman from the first days of pregnancy, this can lead to miscarriage or the development of pathologies in the unborn child.

Is tachycardia dangerous during pregnancy?

Is tachycardia dangerous during pregnancy? This is a question that interests many expectant mothers who are faced with an increased heart rate at the most important moment for every woman. An increase in heart rate significantly worsens the quality of life, causes unfavorable symptoms, and without necessary treatment does not go away without a trace even after pregnancy. Pathology can occur due to exacerbation of chronic diseases. Tachycardia associated with diseases of the cardiovascular system is especially dangerous, as it can be a threat to the life of not only the child, but also the woman. Rapid heartbeat increases the risk of complications during childbirth and pregnancy.

A slight increase in heart rate is not dangerous. But if attacks occur very often and are long-lasting, you should definitely consult a cardiologist and obstetrician-gynecologist. With an increased heart rate with a pulse rate above 120 beats per minute, a woman experiences nausea, dizziness, general ailments, fainting and severe chest pain.

Diagnosis of tachycardia during pregnancy

Diagnosis of tachycardia during pregnancy is a mandatory procedure with which doctors can determine the type of pathology and select the necessary treatment. Let's consider the main diagnostic procedures for rapid heartbeat in a pregnant woman:

• Consultation with a gynecologist and laboratory tests - the doctor helps determine the presence of pregnancy, its timing and gynecological pathologies. For tests, urine and blood are taken, this allows you to determine the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin. A study of thyroid hormone levels is mandatory.
• Electrocardiogram and Dopplerography are carried out to study the heart rhythm and help identify supraventricular tachyarrhythmia.
• EchoCG or ultrasound examination of the heart - determines the functioning of the cardiovascular system, heart valves, identifies heart defects and other pathological diseases of a chronic nature.
• Consultation with related specialists – consultation with a cardiologist (allows you to exclude congenital and acquired heart diseases), endocrinologist and other doctors is mandatory.

Based on the diagnostic results, the doctor draws up the most effective and safe treatment, which will help eliminate the increased heart rate, but will not affect the course of pregnancy and fetal development. When choosing therapy, the doctor takes into account the reasons for the rapid heartbeat, the woman’s age, gestational age, and the presence of concomitant diseases. In most cases, rapid heartbeat does not require special treatment; it is enough to eliminate the causes that caused it.

What to do if you have tachycardia during pregnancy?

What to do with tachycardia during pregnancy is a pressing question for many expectant mothers who have experienced discomfort from palpitations. As a rule, it appears when a woman begins to worry. But just relax enough and your heart rate returns to normal. In this case, an increase in heart rate does not pose a threat. This also applies to increased heart rate caused by increased physical activity.

The danger is posed by attacks of tachycardia that do not stop for a long time. In this case, the woman should seek medical help to diagnose the condition. The doctor collects information about the pregnant woman and determines the causes of the pathology. One of the important factors provoking tachycardia during pregnancy is excess body weight. This is due to the fact that during pregnancy a woman gains weight very quickly, which is one of the causes of tachycardia.

Rapid heartbeat can be caused by bad habits of the expectant mother. A woman should give up smoking, caffeine, alcohol and drugs. If the pathology is caused by diseases of the lungs or cardiovascular system, then doctors prescribe drug therapy. The woman is prescribed antiarrhythmic drugs, beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. Treatment depends on many associated factors, so you should take any medications only with your doctor's permission. It is strictly forbidden to self-medicate, as this will lead to serious health problems and jeopardize pregnancy and the health of the unborn baby.

Treatment of tachycardia during pregnancy

Treatment depends on the cause of the rapid heart rate and the type of tachycardia. In most cases, unpleasant symptoms go away on their own. To do this, a woman just needs to rest, get enough sleep, and stop being nervous. But sometimes drug treatment is also necessary.

Concern should be caused by a rapid heartbeat that occurs for no apparent reason. The main treatment is aimed at eliminating the cause of the pathology, improving the woman’s well-being and preventing relapses of tachycardia. If the cause cannot be determined, then various methods are used for treatment that effectively restore normal heart rhythm.

• With pathology in the first trimester, a woman needs to be provided with comfort and complete rest. Most often, in the early stages of pregnancy, an increase in heart rate appears due to increased hormonal levels. For treatment, natural sedatives (valerian, motherwort) and means to strengthen the heart and immune system (hawthorn, rose hips) are used.
• If the pathology occurs in the second trimester, then the treatment does not differ from the treatment of tachycardia in the first months of the gestational age.
• In the third trimester, heart palpitations reach a maximum and this is explained by the growth and development of the child. For treatment, various sedatives, vitamin and mineral complexes are used.

Before taking any medications during pregnancy, you should consult your doctor and carefully read the instructions for the drug.

Tablets for tachycardia during pregnancy

Tablets for tachycardia during pregnancy help restore normal heart rhythm, prevent attacks and help keep the heart rate under control. The choice of tablets depends on the type of tachycardia, the presence of concomitant diseases in the pregnant woman, the duration of pregnancy and its general course, the side effects of the selected drug and the patient’s response to the therapy.

Medicines are made from herbs and plants. Drugs can also be of synthetic origin, for example: Diazepam, Phenobatbital. Tablets are prescribed for the treatment of rapid heartbeat and vegetative-vascular dystonia. The most effective and safe drugs from this group: Motherwort, Valerian (in tablets and liquid form), Magne B6, Concor, Hawthorn forte, Novo-Passit, Etatsizin, Magneorot, Persen. Medicines reduce the frequency of tachycardia attacks and help normalize the functioning of the nervous system.

A wide group of drugs that can only be used as prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication is dangerous, since any medications used during pregnancy can lead to uncontrolled side effects. The most common drugs from this group: Adenosine, Verapamil, Propranolol, Flecanil. The tablets normalize the heart rate.

Since the treatment of tachycardia during pregnancy also depends on its type, we will consider the treatment of different types of heart palpitations:

• Tachycardia caused by various diseases

In case of ventricular tachycardia, urgent treatment is carried out. In the event of a sudden attack, the woman should go out into the fresh air and take a Validol or Valocordin tablet (these drugs are considered safe for eliminating attacks). After the woman is sent for hospital treatment, doctors administer Quinidine, Novocainomide and other drugs from this group. Antiarrhythmic drugs are prescribed under medical supervision. If a pregnant woman is diagnosed with paroxysmal tachycardia, then antiarrhythmic drugs are administered intravenously.

• Physiological tachycardia

To treat this type of tachycardia, drugs are practically not used, since the main therapy is proper rest. Walking in the fresh air, good nutrition, healthy sleep, absence of bad habits and positive emotions help calm a rapid heart rate. If attacks occur very often, the pregnant woman is prescribed magnesium preparations to restore heart muscle tissue. The drug Panangin, which contains magnesium and potassium, is effective. To normalize the pulse, you can use Valerian, Corvalol, Motherwort and other herbal preparations that are safe for the expectant mother.

Prevention of tachycardia during pregnancy

Prevention of tachycardia during pregnancy is a series of measures that help prevent possible recurrences of attacks of rapid heartbeat. Prevention is based on strengthening the female body to make it easier for the expectant mother to cope with increased stress during pregnancy. To do this, from the first days of pregnancy it is recommended to perform a set of physical exercises, control weight, eat right and lead a healthy lifestyle.

In mild cases, the pregnant woman needs to drink more water and use special relaxation techniques to normalize the heart rhythm. If attacks of tachycardia occur frequently and are prolonged, you should seek medical help. The doctor will prescribe sedatives and fortified medications to normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

• For preventive purposes, it is worth giving up bad habits, coffee, alcohol and nicotine. A woman should consume herbal infusions, juices, water and drinks that do not contain chemical or synthetic ingredients.
• A healthy diet is also the key to avoiding heart palpitations. A pregnant woman should limit her intake of fatty, sweet and salty foods. The diet should include fruits, vegetables, cereals and other healthy foods.
• A calm emotional state, absence of stress and nervous tension - protects against rapid heartbeat. If the increase in heart rate is associated with nerves, then the woman is prescribed potassium and magnesium supplements. This allows you to regulate the contraction of the heart muscles and maintain water-salt balance.

Heart rate can be controlled by restoring the balance of the autonomic nervous system. To do this, you need to learn the technique of deep, calm breathing.

An attack of tachycardia can lead to loss of consciousness. To prevent this from happening, you need to know certain techniques that will prevent fainting. At the first signs of an increase in heart rate, it is recommended to go out into the fresh air, take a comfortable position and wet your face and neck with cold water.

Prognosis of tachycardia during pregnancy

The prognosis depends on the type of tachycardia, the woman’s age and gestational age, the presence of concomitant diseases and the results of early therapy. If a pregnant woman has been diagnosed with sinus tachycardia, this may indicate the presence of heart failure, dysfunction of the left ventricle of the heart, or other organic pathologies. In this case, the prognosis may be unfavorable, since supraventricular tachyarrhythmia can lead to serious consequences. If the rapid heartbeat is physiological in nature, then the prognosis is favorable.

Tachycardia during pregnancy is a rather unpleasant symptom that many women experience. A rapid heartbeat may indicate diseases of the cardiovascular system or be a physiological reaction of the body to increased stress. In any case, this type of pathology requires diagnosis and medical care, as it can negatively affect the intrauterine development of the fetus and the health of the expectant mother.

Rapid heartbeat during pregnancy occurs due to increased stress associated with an increase in blood volume, the appearance of an additional circle of blood circulation, and the increasing need of organs for oxygen. Tachycardia not only affects a woman’s well-being, but can also affect the development of the fetus.

During pregnancy, it is important to be able to detect heart rhythm disturbances in time and take measures to restore it. The emotional state of the expectant mother plays a big role: the calmer she is about this symptom, the easier it will be for her to cope with it. If tachycardia occurs again, you need to visit a doctor and find out the cause of the problem.

Palpitations during pregnancy are most often temporary and irregular, but sometimes they are a sign of another disease. In this case, it is accompanied by a set of symptoms:

• chest pain of aching or paroxysmal nature;
• a feeling of fullness in the chest (“as if the heart wants to jump out of the chest”);
• dizziness, darkening of the eyes, tinnitus;
• loss of sensation in the arms and legs, numbness;
• headache;
• rapid fatigue even from light, habitual exercise;
• dyspnea;
• fainting.

If at least one of the listed symptoms is detected, you need to tell your doctor about it. Timely diagnosis and treatment in such cases is vital.

Causes

The main causes of heart palpitations during pregnancy are physiological changes in a woman’s body. In the early stages, hormonal changes occur against the background of increased secretion of sex hormones, which leads to stimulation of the heart muscle and the development of tachycardia.

Gradually, with the growth of the fetus and uterus, the volume of circulating blood increases, and the uteroplacental circulation appears. All this creates additional stress on the heart. In the later stages, when the child is already quite large, a displacement of the organs located next to him occurs. The position of the heart also changes to some extent, which may affect its functioning.

The cause of tachycardia may be other factors, namely:

• development of ectopic pregnancy;
• excess weight;
• severe stress, anxiety, fears;
• increased metabolic rate, leading to a deficiency of vitamins that are necessary for normal heart function;
• anemia;
• hypertension or hypotension;
• severe form of toxicosis;
• taking medications;
• allergies, bronchial asthma;
• thyroid diseases;
• infections and inflammations;
• abuse of caffeinated foods and drinks.

Diagnostics

The main diagnostic method for palpitations in pregnant women is electrocardiography. The advantages of an ECG are that it is absolutely harmless to the fetus and the expectant mother, and is also quite informative: the results obtained allow a very accurate diagnosis to be made.

In most cases, palpitations during pregnancy occur as part of sinus tachycardia. This rhythm disorder does not require special treatment and goes away on its own after the birth of the child.

To confirm sinus tachycardia, the symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances are specified: more often it occurs after eating, worsens in a lying position, in a stuffy room, and is associated with an emotional state. All these signs are called extracardiac and are not related to cardiovascular pathologies.

In addition to an electrocardiogram, when diagnosing heart rhythm disturbances, the following types of examinations may be prescribed:

• Ultrasound of the heart and blood vessels;
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland;
• general blood and urine analysis;
• blood test to determine the concentration of hormones.

These examinations are especially often prescribed if a woman has a history of cardiovascular, endocrine, or infectious diseases. In combination with sinus tachycardia, they can lead to myocardial exhaustion.

Treatment

Treatment of tachycardia during pregnancy is necessary in cases where it is caused by diseases of the heart, blood vessels, thyroid gland, allergies, infection or inflammation. A set of diagnostic procedures is carried out, and a specialist (cardiologist, endocrinologist, allergist, etc.) prescribes the necessary medications.

If palpitations are caused by physiological changes in a woman’s body associated with pregnancy, then no special treatment is required. It is necessary to eliminate all factors that can provoke tachycardia: adjust the diet by excluding caffeinated products, increase the intake of iron in the body, normalize the daily routine, master relaxation and self-control skills, and avoid sources of stress.

You can use folk remedies that have a mild sedative effect: take an infusion of lemon balm, lily of the valley, rose hips, thyme, chamomile, hawthorn, yarrow, mint, fennel, valerian.

But before preparing such a drink, you need to read the instructions for the medicinal plant. Some of them are allowed to be consumed in limited quantities during pregnancy (for example, chamomile).

First aid during an attack

If palpitations are mild, no special help is required. It usually goes away within a few minutes; the main thing is to avoid physical activity during this time.

If tachycardia develops in the form of attacks with deterioration in health (dizziness, darkening of the eyes, difficulty breathing), you should adhere to the following recommendations:

• sit down or half-lie down, try to relax;
• warn others, ask them for help;
• ensure air flow: open the window, unbutton tight clothing;
• take Valerian;
• rinse your face with cool water and/or place a damp towel on your forehead;
• try to cough, take a deep breath and exhale;
• close your eyes and press your palms on your eyeballs (repeat several times).

Most often, all these measures relieve an attack of tachycardia. But if your health does not improve, you need to call an ambulance.

Prevention

If a pregnant woman does not have diseases that can cause increased heart rate, then attacks of tachycardia can be prevented using preventive measures:

• balance your diet, stick to a plant-and-dairy diet;
• give up any sources of caffeine: coffee, cocoa, chocolate, instant cereals (manufacturers add caffeine to some of them);
• provide the body with regular dosed exercise (hiking, swimming are suitable);
• avoid excessive physical activity to which the body is not accustomed;
• master relaxation and relaxation skills (breathing techniques, yoga asanas, auto-training, etc.);
• avoid sources of stress, which often develops when watching films and programs with scenes of violence, as well as when communicating with a large number of people;
• normalize the water-salt balance by drinking about 1.5 liters of water per day;
• adhere to a daily routine in which 8-10 hours are allocated for sleep;
• take medications with calcium, potassium, magnesium.

Forecast

Rapid heartbeat during early pregnancy is a rare occurrence. As a rule, this symptom increases from the 2nd trimester. At first, rare rhythm disturbances occur; closer to childbirth, they may become more frequent. The prognosis is positive in most cases.

Physiological tachycardia is temporary and disappears after the birth of the child. It does not affect the woman’s health or the child’s development in any way.

If increased heart rate is a symptom of a disease, then it is impossible to predict how it will affect the fetus and the course of pregnancy. In these cases, examination and individual consultation with a specialist is necessary. To prevent such conditions, it is important to identify existing pathologies at the stage of pregnancy planning.

As a rule, palpitations during pregnancy are physiological: they are caused by natural changes in the body of the expectant mother, do not require special treatment and disappear completely after childbirth. When tachycardia is a symptom of another disease, professional diagnosis and treatment is necessary.

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