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Newer and wilder roller coasters increase the heart rate to 155 beats/minute and can dangerously alter heart rhythm in some people, a new study has shown.

The new study was published in the Journal of American Medical Association this month. It highlights the risks of roller coasters for those people with a heart condition.

Dr. Haghi, co-author of the study said, "If people have a serious heart condition or if they are unaware of their heart condition, this might be worrisome." He also referred to roller coasters as, "quite a stressor on the cardiovascular system. It's real brief in duration, but it could certainly precipitate. . . heart pain in individuals with blockages in coronary arteries."

Researchers took the 55 healthy volunteers blood pressure readings before and after the ride. Blood pressure levels increased to mild hypertension after the roller coaster ride. In addition, about half of the participants saw an increase in the variability of their heart pattern, known as sinus arrhythmia.

The study reinforces that people with heart conditions and high blood pressure should not ride roller coasters.

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