If you have herpes and experience heart palpitations, they may — or may not — be related.
While a skin disease and a heart condition might seem totally separate on the surface, researchers believe there may actually be a correlation. Heart palpitations are often the result of an underlying condition and there is evidence from studies to suggest that the herpes virus may be one of them.
One theory about the correlation is that a virus or bacteria sitting in the bloodstream for many years can disrupt the vessel walls. Another theory suggests that the inflammation experienced with herpes can damage the arteries. Either of these things can disrupt the flow of blood which can in turn lead to irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations.
Another possible indirect connection is that herpes often leads to fatigue and/or fever, both of which can cause heart palpitations. Stress or anxiety is also a known cause.
Other Causes of Heart Palpitations
In addition to the causes mentioned above, heart palpitations can also stem from:
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Strenuous exercise
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Caffeine and nicotine
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Hormonal changes such as pregnancy
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Stimulants found in some cold, cough, and asthma medications
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Stimulating street drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines
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Thyroid disease
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Low blood-sugar levels
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Dehydration
Heart palpitations are not typically dangerous and usually go away on their own. If they are not the result of an underlying condition such as herpes, a simple lifestyle change can suppress the palpitations. Medications such as beta blockers can also help control heart palpitations.
In rare cases, heart palpitations can be a sign of a more serious heart condition. That’s why it’s important to see a medical professional if you experience heart palpitations, especially if you are also suffering from shortness of breath, chest pains, dizziness, or fainting.
The medical professionals at FastMed can treat patients for both herpes and heart palpitations. Don’t spend another day suffering — visit your local FastMed today.
About FastMed
FastMed Urgent Care owns and operates nearly 200 centers in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas that provide a broad range of acute/episodic and preventive healthcare services 365 days a year. FastMed also provides workers’ compensation and other occupational health services at all its centers, and family and sports medicine services at select locations. FastMed has successfully treated more than six million patients and is the only independent urgent care operator in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas to be awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information about locations, services, hours of operation, insurance and prices, visit www.fastmed.com.