Symptom 2: Tachycardia (Rapid Heartbeat)
Among the physiological reactions triggered by EHS, tachycardia, or a rapid heartbeat, is particularly noteworthy. Now, the heart is an intricate mechanism, responding sensitively to our emotional and physical states. So, when the brain registers the loud bang or crash, it sends a signal, putting the body on high alert. This, in turn, accelerates the heart rate.
Interestingly, the heart’s response can be likened to our primitive fight-or-flight reaction. It’s our body’s way of prepping us for potential danger – even if that danger is just an auditory figment of our imagination. For many, the sensation is likened to the aftermath of a jump scare in a horror movie – a palpable, pounding heartbeat that reverberates throughout the body.
However, repeated episodes of tachycardia, especially in older adults or those with existing cardiac issues, can be concerning. Not only does it disrupt the sleep cycle, but it can also lead to undue strain on the heart over time.
That being said, the immediate reaction post an EHS episode is typically self-limiting. As the minutes tick by and the brain realizes there’s no real threat, the heart rate slowly starts to normalize. The experience, however, underscores the profound interconnectedness of our brain and cardiac functions.
The bottom line is – while the rapid heartbeat post an EHS episode is usually harmless, monitoring and understanding its pattern can be crucial, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions. (2)
