Question Title: Autonomic Tachycardia

I am a 31 y/o F, with significant PMH of smoking 15 yrs (I quit 2 months ago). I began having a rapid heart rate and a fluttering feeling in my chest 6 months ago. Although it was a very stressfull time in my life it was not what I would consider the most stressful time. These symptoms appeared only after waking but then gradually over about a month's time the rapid heart rate (100 bpm at rest) seems to occur 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I especially notice it at night when I am trying to sleep and at times feel my body move slightly with each beat and hear my pulse in my ears. If I am in a slightly stressful situation my body reacts to it ten fold than before these symptoms occured. At about the same time, I began having extremely painful and abnormally heavy periods. The cardiologist checked my blood and did an echo, both of which were normal except a cholesterol level of 234. The doctor prescribed Tenormin and states I have autonomic tachycardia due to stress. I prefer not to go on the medication and am astonished that my body continues to react this way even though situations have resolved and life is pretty good! Should I get a second opinion? Will the rapid heart rate damage my heart if not treated? My friend told me to take Hawthorn berry and CoQ10, will this help? Thank you for your input.

Dear Robin, thank you for your question. First, congratulations on quitting smoking - make it last! Second, the Hawthorn Berry and Coenzyme Q will not help - don't waste your money. Third, I don't think you can be given a true diagnosis unless you have worn a cardiac monitor to continuously record your heart rhythm over 1-2 days. Autonomic tachycardia refers to a normal sinus tachycardia that occurs when you are stressed and your adrenaline levels increase. Tenormin is a beta blocker that can blunt that response, so it's worth trying. You're always entitled to a second opinion, but it sounds like your cardiologist is doing a just fine at this point.

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