Why Does the Heart Race for No Reason? — Somatic and Psychological Causes
Why Does the Heart Race for No Reason? — Somatic and Psychological Causes
Medically reviewed byGiorgi (Guga) Sikharulidze · Professor of Psychiatry, MD,PhD · Founder & Clinical Director· Last updated: August 13, 2026
What happens in the body when the heart rate increases?
A sharp release of adrenaline and noradrenaline
An increase in heart rate (tachycardia, 100+ beats/minute)
An increase in blood pressure
Sweating, trembling, and a sensation of shortness of breath
Somatic causes that must be ruled out
⚕️ Important warning: A psychogenic cause of increased heart rate can only be discussed after a cardiologist has ruled out an organic pathology. First, consult a cardiologist!
Arrhythmias — atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia
Thyroid hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism)
Anemia — iron deficiency
Heart valve diseases
Exposure to caffeine or stimulants
Necessary examinations:
Psychological causes — when the heart pounds "from nerves"
Panic attack
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Somatic symptom disorder
How to manage an episode?
Slow, deep breathing: inhale for 4 seconds → hold for 4 seconds → exhale for 6 seconds
Reminding yourself: this is a panic attack and is not life-threatening
Physical grounding: 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and stimulants
When should you see a psychiatrist?
Cardiological examination reveals no organic pathology
The episodes of heart palpitations recur and are associated with anxiety
The symptom affects daily life
It is accompanied by panic, fear, sleep disturbance, or social isolation
Treatment approaches
SSRI antidepressants — first-line treatment for panic disorder and anxiety
Beta-blockers — symptomatic relief (reducing heart rate)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — treatment targeting the underlying cause
EMDR — particularly effective for symptoms associated with PTSD
Treatment at GSMRC
See also:
Anxiety disorder
Psychotherapy