Fluid intake is extremely crucial for our bodies. Adequate hydration helps regulate body temperature, keep joints well lubricated, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and keep organs functioning properly, according to the US Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health.
When fluid intake is low and the body loses more fluid than it takes in, it can lead to dehydration, which can have various effects on the body. In certain cases, people may experience strain on the heart, leading to heart palpitations. Dr Sumanjita Bora, General Physician, Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur, shares insights to help us understand the link.
Also Read: Dehydration: Signs That You're Not Having Enough Water
How Dehydration Impacts The Heart
While there may seem to be no correlation between dehydration and heart problems, Dr Bora explains the relationship and why it is important to maintain adequate fluid balance in the body for heart health.
According to her, dehydration decreases the total blood volume circulating in the body, leading to a drop in blood pressure (hypotension), which can cause dizziness and fainting.
“To compensate, the heart must pump more frequently, increasing the heart rate (tachycardia) and potentially causing palpitations,” she explains, adding that with less fluid in the bloodstream, the heart has to work harder to pump blood efficiently, straining the heart and causing tachycardiomyopathy and stress-cardiomyopathy.
Research also suggests that staying hydrated throughout life can help slow down the decline of heart function and reduce the risk of developing heart failure.
Why Dehydration Causes Heart Palpitations
Dr Bora says, "Dehydration can cause palpitations, a feeling of increased heartbeat."
She explains, "When the body lacks sufficient fluids, it can disrupt the balance of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining the heart's electrical activity. This imbalance can lead to irregular heartbeats, also called palpitations."
Additionally, dehydration reduces blood volume, lowering blood pressure and prompting the heart to pump harder and faster to ensure adequate blood flow throughout the body, the doctor further adds. Not to mention how dehydration also makes the blood thicker and more viscous, making it harder for the heart to pump and increasing the possibility of irregular heartbeats.
It is also important to note that dehydration can affect the heart muscle directly, reducing its efficiency and pumping capacity, leading to heart failure, and potentially contributing to arrhythmias.
Symptoms Of Dehydration
Dehydration can cause various issues in the body, which can be identified through certain signs and symptoms. These include:
- A strong feeling of thirst
- Dry mouth and dry mucous membranes
- Dark urine, signifying a high concentration of waste products
- Tiredness and low energy
- Lowered blood pressure
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Dry skin and less elasticity
- A rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), as explained earlier
- Mental confusion and fainting in extreme cases
Prevention And Treatment
The key is to ensure regular and sufficient fluid consumption throughout the day.
Water is the best choice for hydration, but during prolonged or intense exercise, consider electrolyte-rich beverages to replenish lost electrolytes, says Dr Bora.
He advises monitoring signs of dehydration, regularly checking urine colour, and aiming for light yellow urine. Hydrate yourself before starting physical activity, during exercise, and after finishing a workout. “For activities lasting more than an hour, consider drinks ORS (oral rehydration salt) that replace electrolytes, she says.
The doctor further recommends increasing fluid intake during hot weather, illness (especially with fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea), and periods of increased physical activity. You can use proper apps or reminders to help keep track of fluid intake, especially if you have a tendency to forget to drink water regularly.
Other measures include:
- Avoid beverages that can exacerbate dehydration, such as those containing caffeine or alcohol.
- If heart palpitations persist despite adequate hydration, consult a healthcare professional as early as possible.
- Address underlying medical conditions that could be causing heart palpitations.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your doctor if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]