Prenatal vitamins are designed to be used during pregnancy to provide extra nutritional support for the growing fetus. Children with poor prenatal nutrition may have increased risk of developing certain diseases later in life, including hypertension and diabetes, say authors Carol K. Sigelman and Elizabeth A. Rider in their book, "Life-Span Human Development."
Some women may experience adverse reactions, including a rapid or racing heartbeat, from prenatal vitamins due to a vitamin allergy or overdose. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience a racing heartbeat after taking prenatal vitamins.
Prenatal Vitamin Overdose
Prenatal vitamins should not generally cause any adverse side effects. Certain nutrients found in prenatal vitamins, including minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc, may cause a range of side effects ranging from a rapid or irregular heartbeat to confusion, especially if taken in large doses. In fact, taking high doses of any vitamin or mineral can be dangerous for you and your unborn baby. In particular, high doses of vitamin B1, or thiamine, generally found in prenatal vitamins, can cause a racing heartbeat, says the American Pregnancy Association.
Vitamin Allergies
A vitamin allergy is another possible cause of a racing heartbeat, also referred to as tachycardia, after taking prenatal vitamins. Mild vitamin allergies generally manifest as symptoms such as fatigue, sneezing, headaches or asthma. Severe vitamin allergies can cause anaphylactic shock, says the website Health Tree. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock can include a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, respiratory problems, skin reactions such as hives and other symptoms, .
Other Possible Causes
A racing heartbeat during pregnancy may not necessarily be associated with prenatal vitamins. In fact, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, a condition characterized by an occasionally rapid heartbeat, is relatively common in pregnant women and women of reproductive age. Additional symptoms of this condition include anxiety, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Medline Plus reports that symptoms of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia can come and go suddenly and do not always require medical treatment.
Tests
During pregnancy, the body is under stress to provide nutrition to the growing fetus. At times, a racing heart may simply be an indication of your body working harder to supply oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby. However, you should consult your doctor if you experience a racing heartbeat after taking prenatal vitamins, especially if your symptoms persist or recur.
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia is defined as a heart rate between 150 and 250 beats per minute, according to Medline Plus. Your doctor will perform specific tests to help determine the cause and inform you whether any type of treatment is warranted.
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