Nasal congestion and heart palpitations

A blocked nose can disturb sleep and make breathing feel uncomfortable, which may increase awareness of the heartbeat. Fever, dehydration, anxiety, and the body’s response to an infection can also make the heart feel fast or forceful. Some cold remedies and decongestants can trigger palpitations in susceptible people. Allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, chronic sinusitis, a common cold, house dust mite allergy, or obstructive sleep apnoea may explain congestion, but they do not by themselves explain every heartbeat change.

Sit quietly, breathe gently, drink fluids if you can, and note when the sensation starts, how long it lasts, and whether the rhythm feels regular. Check labels before taking non-prescription cold or allergy products, and ask a pharmacist whether a decongestant is appropriate if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or take regular medicines. Saline nasal care and avoiding smoke may ease congestion. For the nasal symptom itself, see Blocked Nose; Allergy Medication may be relevant when allergies are the trigger.

Call emergency services for palpitations with chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, confusion, or marked weakness. Seek prompt medical advice for a new persistent fast rhythm, repeated episodes, dizziness, or palpitations after starting a medicine. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or seriously unwell. A clinician may check your pulse, medicines, hydration, and heart rhythm rather than assuming the congestion is responsible.

Bring a list of medicines, supplements, caffeine or energy drinks, and recent illnesses. Tell your clinician whether the sensation is pounding, fluttering, skipped beats, or racing, and whether it occurs at rest or with activity. Ask which congestion treatments are safest for you and whether your heart rhythm needs testing.