We often hear about high blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, but one silent indicator of heart health that doesn’t always get the spotlight is your heart rate. As a physician who treats patients with various cardiovascular concerns, I find that many people overlook or misunderstand the importance of monitoring their pulse. So, let’s talk about it—especially when it’s higher than it should be.
What’s a Normal Heart Rate?
Your heart rate, or pulse, is simply the number of times your heart beats per minute. For most healthy adults at rest, a normal heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm).
Factors like age, fitness level, medication, stress, and even the time of day can affect your resting heart rate. Athletes, for example, may have a resting rate as low as 40 bpm because their hearts are incredibly efficient. But if your rate consistently ticks above 100 bpm while you’re resting—and you’re not anxious, sick, or exercising—it could signal a more serious issue.
When Is a Heart Rate Considered High?
A resting heart rate over 100 bpm is medically referred to as tachycardia. Now, a quickened heartbeat isn’t always dangerous—it can be a natural response to exercise, caffeine, dehydration, or emotional stress. But when that elevated rate becomes persistent, unexplained, or symptomatic, it’s time to pause and pay attention.
Why Does a High Heart Rate Matter?
Here’s what I often tell my patients: Your heart isn’t designed to sprint all day. Like a car engine running too fast for too long, it wears down over time.
Persistent tachycardia can:
-
Reduce blood flow to the body and brain, leading to dizziness, fatigue, or fainting
-
Increase the risk of blood clots, potentially causing a stroke or heart attack
-
Weaken the heart muscle, especially if the condition is left untreated
-
Be a sign of arrhythmia or underlying heart disease
In some cases, a high heart rate may be the first sign of an overactive thyroid, anemia, infection, or even a previously undiagnosed structural heart problem.
When Should You Be Concerned?
If you’re noticing symptoms like:
-
Palpitations or fluttering in your chest
-
Shortness of breath even at rest
-
Unexplained fatigue
-
Chest discomfort or tightness
-
Feeling lightheaded or faint
…these are not just minor inconveniences. These are your heart’s warning signs. You shouldn’t ignore them.
Even if you feel “fine,” a consistently elevated heart rate over 100 bpm while resting warrants a closer look. As heart specialists, we’re trained to find the underlying cause—sometimes it’s simple, sometimes it’s not. But either way, early detection gives us the upper hand.
How a Heart & Vascular Specialist Can Help
A consultation with a cardiovascular specialist goes beyond just looking at numbers. At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we dig deeper with advanced diagnostic tools like:
-
Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
-
Echocardiograms
-
Holter monitors
-
Stress testing
-
Electrophysiology studies
We don’t just aim to slow your heart rate—we aim to understand why it’s high and how to treat the cause, not just the symptom.
Treatment could be as simple as adjusting lifestyle habits or medications—or as complex as catheter ablation or managing arrhythmias with implantable devices. Regardless of your condition, we tailor our approach to your unique heart.
The Apex Approach: Compassion, Precision, Prevention
At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we believe your heart deserves careful, compassionate attention. Whether you’re in Houston, Tomball, or Cypress, our board-certified cardiovascular experts offer the latest in diagnostics and personalized care.
We accept most major insurances, welcome new patients, and provide same-week appointments when needed.Don’t ignore a racing heart. Your heart works for you every second—return the favor. Call us today at (832) 305-5977 or Book your consultation online and take a proactive step toward better heart health.
Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider. In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.