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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Sinus Tachycardia
Introduction
Sinus tachycardia is a condition in which the heart rate is elevated above the normal resting rate, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute (bpm) in adults. It originates from the sinoatrial (SA) node, which is the natural pacemaker of the heart.
Causes
Sinus tachycardia can be physiological (normal) or pathological (abnormal). Possible causes include: - Physiological causes: Exercise, stress, anxiety, fever, pregnancy, or caffeine intake. - Pathological causes: Anemia, dehydration, infection, hyperthyroidism, heart failure, or pulmonary embolism.
Symptoms
Many cases of sinus tachycardia are asymptomatic but can include: - Palpitations (fast or strong heartbeat) - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Shortness of breath - Fatigue
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made using: - Electrocardiogram (ECG): Shows a regular rhythm with a rapid heart rate originating from the SA node. - Blood tests: To check for anemia, thyroid dysfunction, or infection. - Echocardiogram: To assess heart function if an underlying cardiac issue is suspected.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause: - Lifestyle modifications: Avoidance of stimulants (e.g., caffeine, nicotine) and stress management. - Medications: Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers in cases where symptoms are severe. - Treating underlying conditions: Managing thyroid disease, dehydration, or infections.
When to Seek Medical Help
Seek medical attention if sinus tachycardia is accompanied by: - Chest pain or discomfort - Severe shortness of breath - Fainting or near fainting episodes
Conclusion
Sinus tachycardia is often normal but may indicate an underlying medical condition. Proper diagnosis and management are key to ensuring good heart health.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines
- https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
- https://www.heart.org/
- https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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