Someone’s heart rate can increase or stay the same during a heart attack. An elevated heart rate is not a specific sign or symptom of a heart attack.
Heart attacks involve a restriction or stoppage of blood flowing to the heart. A person’s heart rate during a heart attack will vary based on their overall health, medication use, and other medical conditions.
Some people will experience an increased heart rate during a heart attack, but others will not. More common signs of a heart attack include severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest.
This article discusses what happens during a heart attack, how it affects the heart rate, and what to do.
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A heart attack occurs when the heart loses all or some blood flow to the organ. The blood flowing to the heart provides oxygen. Without oxygen, the heart cannot function normally.
According to the
- how much of the blood flow to the heart is blocked
- what the oxygen demand of the heart muscle is
- the speed of treatment
Following a heart attack, the heart will begin to heal, sometimes creating scar tissue over the damaged area. In some cases, the heart will become permanently weakened and pump less blood.
A person’s heart rate may increase or stay the same during a heart attack.
The heart rate at the time of treatment can sometimes predict success in recovery. According to one 2018 study across 58 hospitals, a heart rate above 80 beats per minute had the highest risk of mortality following a heart attack.
Is a high heart rate a sign of a heart attack?
An elevated heart rate is not a reliable sign of a heart attack.
The
There are three types of heart attack, each of which affects heart rate differently. The three types are:
- ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)
- non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI)
- coronary artery spasm
STEMI can be the most severe form of heart attack. It typically causes an elevated heart rate during the event, but certain types of STEMIs can cause damage to the electrical system of the heart and slow the heart rate.
NSTEMI heart attacks are usually less damaging to the heart, but may also increase the heart rate. Sometimes the NSTEMI (Type II) is a result of fast heart rate as a result of some other underlying issue (such as fever or bleeding) with a fixed blockage of the coronary arteries.
Coronary artery spasms occur when the artery walls tighten and restrict blood flow to the heart. They can also affect the heart rate.
Heart attacks cause damage to part of the heart. The damage occurs in any area that the blocked artery usually supplies with blood.
According to the
A doctor or emergency room team
Tachycardia is where a person’s heart rate is
Bradycardia causes a
The
Stress during a heart attack can also increase blood pressure. Once treatment has begun, healthcare professionals will monitor blood pressure and stabilize it as needed. Higher blood pressure can increase the oxygen demand of the heart.
There are several potential signs of a heart attack to look out for,
- discomfort in different areas of the body, such as in one or both arms, the neck, back, or stomach
- pressure or fullness in the chest
- chest discomfort or shortness of breath
- lightheadedness
- nausea
- cold sweat
Symptoms can vary based on whether a person is male or female. Everyone may have chest pain or fullness. Females are more likely to experience some of the other atypical symptoms, such as discomfort around the body.
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.
About
- family history of heart disease
- smoking
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
- older age
Anyone experiencing symptoms of a heart attack should contact emergency services immediately. The
Following the emergency, a person should follow up with their doctor for steps to support a full recovery. Doctors will typically help develop a follow-up treatment plan that may include preventive medicine and lifestyle changes.
How can I rule out a heart attack at home?
Only a health professional can reliably assess if a heart attack has occurred using diagnostic tests. If a person suspects they are having a heart attack, they should seek immediate medical attention.
Can you have a heart attack with normal blood pressure and pulse?
Yes, it is possible to have a heart attack with normal blood pressure and pulse. Blood pressure and pulse are not a definite indicator of a heart attack.
Key symptoms such as chest tightness and pressure, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness are more critical signs.
How do I know if I’m having a heart attack?
A person may experience the following symptoms if they are having a heart attack:
- discomfort in different areas of the body, such as in one or both arms, the neck, back, or stomach
- pressure or fullness in the chest
- chest discomfort or shortness of breath
- lightheadedness
- nausea
- cold sweat
A person’s heart rate during a heart attack may increase or stay the same, although an elevated heart rate may be associated with a worse outcome. Doctors may provide medication during a heart attack to lower the heart rate, such as beta-blockers.
An elevated heart rate is not a reliable sign of a heart attack. Pay attention to other signs, such as chest pain, pressure, or discomfort. A person should contact emergency services immediately if they are experiencing any signs of a heart attack.