heart rate

using the eliptical machine. I am 62 years old ,I  take beta blocker and cozzar but feel great.
yesterday while at the gym my heart rate went up to 160 and after using the eliptical i went to do some weights and felt sick and thought I might pass out. I am female and have only been on the exercise program for 2 weeks. how dangerous is my heart rate at that level?

[Dr_Veena]

Hi,
      Thanks for writing in. The heart normally beats at a rate of about 60 to 100 beats per minute at rest. A rate faster than 100 beats a minute in an adult is called tachycardia. Most people experience transient rapid heartbeats, called sinus tachycardia, as a normal response to excitement, anxiety, stress, or exercise. Do you use any other drugs other than beta blockers and cozzar?

The most common side effects seen with cozzar in those with high blood pressure include nasal congestion, infection, and back pain.
The most common side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, sleep problems, unusual tiredness or weakness, decreased sexual ability, breathing difficulty, decreased heart rate, mental depression, cold hand s and feet etc.
I think it is only because of the exercise. Even though you are healthy, the kind of exercises and the amount of exercise that are required need to be decided by a fitness expert.
Also, it would be advisable to visit your physician before starting any kind of exercise and take their advise on the same.
Best.