Symptom 6. Rapid Heartbeat: The Unsettling Rhythm
A rapid or irregular heartbeat can be a distressing symptom associated with subacute thyroiditis. Often experienced as palpitations, this involves the sensation of the heart beating too quickly, skipping beats, or fluttering irregularly – a noticeable deviation from the regular, comforting rhythm of the heart.
A rapid heartbeat, or tachycardia, is not limited to episodes of anxiety or physical exertion. In the context of subacute thyroiditis, these palpitations may occur at rest or even interrupt sleep, causing distress and apprehension.
The changes in heart rhythm might not be constant but can occur in sporadic episodes. These episodes may last for a few seconds to several minutes, varying in frequency and duration. They might also be accompanied by breathlessness, adding to the discomfort.
Though a rapid heartbeat might not cause physical harm in most cases, the psychological impact can be significant. It can lead to increased anxiety and fear, especially when it happens for the first time or without apparent reason. (6)
