Questions posted in the Heart Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Question Title: Exercise Induced Arrhythmia from over sensitivity to adrenaline

Forum: The Heart Forum
Topic: Arrhythmia


I am a 40 year old, 125 pd, 5'7", very athletic woman. I have run several marathons, bike long distance and I am pursueing my black belt in Karate. Last year I went to a cardiologist when I noticed my heart monitor, that I just got as a gift, showed my heart rate to be between 180 and 240 when I did a run longer than 3 miles. I was not breathing hard but I did feel some discomfort in my chest. I went through many many tests, wore a haltor monitor, and had a cardiac cath. and the diagnosis was an over sensitivity to my adrenaline. Something I was born with and only notice now because of my increased activity and age. My heart looked great, no adnormalities, clear of any blockage, as my doctor said, "I wish I had a heart that looked this good." He prescribed Lopressor 1/4 tablet once a day before exercising. I have had problems with even this small amount. I am tired, have skin rashes, joint pain, and muscle pain. Is there anything else I could take or do I have to take anything? What would happen if I continue to run this way with a heart rate this high? I have never heard of anyone else with this problem but I am sure there has to be someone. I went to a specialist on arrhythmia and his response is to slow down, don't run too far, and take it easy. This is not my lifestyle, I enjoy being active and feel great and energitic when I am not on my medication. Any help you could give me would be appreciated or if you could steer me towards any articles about others with my condition. Thanks!


Dear Diana, thank you for your question. This is a rare condition that I have been unable to find any references on to list for you. The symptoms you mention (skin rash, joint pain, etc) are unlikely to be caused by lopressor which is in a class of medications called beta blockers. There are many other beta blockers that you could try to see if the same symptoms persist. I appreciate your desire to be active, and I really can't say what will happen if your heart rate continues to be > 180 with regular exercise. Overall, I think the tests you've had performed indicate that you have a normal heart and the only problem seems to be an accelerated heart rate with exercise. We have a number of excellent electrophysiologists here who may be able to help you if you can come to Cleveland for an evaluation. I suggest that you contact Dr. Mina Chung at 216-444-2290. Dr. Chung is a runner and an electrophysiologist who would be happy to see you.


I hope you find this information useful. Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only. Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions. Good luck.

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