13. Elevated Heart Rate: The Racing Pulse of Alarm
When the heart races, it’s usually associated with exercise, anxiety, or excitement. But with Ludwig’s Angina, an elevated heart rate is the body’s way of signaling distress. The heart pumps faster to ensure vital organs get the oxygen and nutrients they need, especially when faced with a spreading infection.
Infections, like Ludwig’s Angina, can cause an increase in metabolic demand. As the body battles the bacteria, the heart rate can rise to help circulate blood more efficiently, carrying white blood cells and antibiotics (if administered) to the site of infection and removing waste products.
A persistent elevated heart rate, especially when it’s paired with other Ludwig’s Angina symptoms, acts as a warning bell. Monitoring this can provide insights into how the body is coping with the infection and if it’s entering a more critical phase. (13)
