Sign 6: Rapid Heart Rate
The heartbeat is like a rhythmic drum, setting the pace for our body’s many functions. A rapid heart rate, clinically termed tachycardia, can be disconcerting. When linked to volvulus, it’s a manifestation of the body’s response to stress and pain, and not a direct result of the intestinal twist.
When there’s distress, especially something as severe as a twisted intestine, the body releases a surge of stress hormones, including adrenaline. This hormone prepares the body to respond to immediate threats, and one of its effects is accelerating the heart rate. It’s as if the body is sounding an internal alarm, signaling that all’s not well.
But it’s not just about counting heartbeats. Tachycardia, in the context of volvulus, might be accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or even fainting. These manifestations underscore the seriousness of the situation.
A consistently rapid heart rate can lead to various complications. It can result in a reduction of blood flow to the rest of the body, potentially affecting vital organs. Over time, if untreated, it can strain the heart and lead to heart-related complications.(6)
