What Causes Fast Heart Rate In A Patient With High Fever?

Posted on Tue, 14 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 14 Apr 2015 Answered on

Tue, 5 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I normally have a resting heart rate in the lower 70's. I have been sick with strep throat, have had a fever and although my blood pressure is good (115/74), my resting heart rate is between 100-105. Is this due to my fever/being sick? Can it be the antibiotics? Or, could it be something else and cause for concern? I have heard that rheumatic fever can be caused by strep and cause heart issues and this concerns me.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Fast heart rate could be related to fever.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Fast heart rate is always found in states with high fever.

It is true for rheumatic fever related to strep infection that may cause heart valves or muscle damage,

If the heart is damaged, there are other symptoms besides fast heart rate that accompany this damage.

These include fatigue during physical activity, shortness of breath, palpitations etc.

In my opinion, your increased heart rate is related to fever.

Anyway if in doubt or any symptoms, then you should consult a Cardiologist and discus your concerns.

Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj