Nocturnal tachycardia

which occurs during the night.

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More in detail, nocturnal tachycardia represents a symptom that can be associated with various conditions, pathological and otherwise.

Contrary to what one might think, in fact, nocturnal tachycardia is not always related to heart diseases, but can also be induced by disorders of different origins.

In the course of the article, therefore, the main causes of nocturnal tachycardia, the associated symptoms and the possible treatments that can be carried out to counter it will be briefly analyzed.

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In this regard, it should be remembered that, in adults, one can speak of tachycardia when the resting heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute (bpm).

The appearance of nocturnal tachycardia can lead to the awakening of the individual who, feeling the heart rate increased, may worry or panic, further worsening the problem.

Although, as will be seen in the course of the article, in many cases nocturnal tachycardia does not represent a serious condition, the symptom should not be underestimated, especially if it tends to occur for several consecutive nights or if it is associated with other symptoms that could be indicative serious underlying pathological conditions In such situations, medical advice is essential.

(pathological arrhythmias), damage to heart tissue (for example, due to a previous myocardial infarction), heart failure, etc.

Anxiety disorders, panic attacks and stress: in many cases, tachycardia can represent the somatization of anxious states and conditions of particularly intense stress, as well as a sign of the onset of panic attacks.

Hyperthyroidism: the excessive production of thyroid hormones that characterizes hyperthyroidism also affects the cardiovascular system, inducing an increase in heart rate and an increase in the contraction force of the heart.

Anemia: The presence of anemia can have negative repercussions on the heart causing tachycardia. Because of the disease, in fact, the various organs and tissues receive lesser quantities of oxygen; the heart, therefore, in an attempt to compensate for this condition, tries to work harder in order to guarantee the correct supply of oxygen to all parts of the body.

Poor digestion and gastroesophageal reflux: sometimes, nocturnal tachycardia can be caused by poor digestion - due, for example, to a too abundant and "heavy" meal - or by the presence of gastroesophageal reflux.

Alcoholism and smoking: both of these addictive conditions - alcohol and tobacco smoke respectively - can affect heart rate, causing tachycardia, even at night.

Taking some types of drugs: nocturnal tachycardia can manifest itself as a side effect of drugs taken before bedtime or in any case in the evening hours. Examples of such drugs are represented by: anti-asthmatics, drugs against hypothyroidism, ephedrine, decongestants, adrenaline, etc.

Hormonal changes: the onset of nocturnal tachycardia can also occur in response to hormonal changes and alterations. It is therefore not surprising that many women experience this symptom shortly before menstruation or during menopause.

Taking stimulants before bed, such as caffeinated drinks.

Taking drugs.