About-Cardio
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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.
Understanding High Pulse Rate (Tachycardia)
Introduction
A high pulse rate, also known as tachycardia, occurs when the heart beats at a rate higher than normal—typically over 100 beats per minute (bpm) in adults. Depending on the cause, tachycardia may be harmless or require medical treatment.
Causes of High Pulse Rate
1. Physiological Causes (Normal Reactions)
- Exercise
- Stress and anxiety
- Fever or infection
- Caffeine or alcohol intake
- Dehydration
2. Pathological Causes (Medical Conditions)
- Cardiac conditions: Atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), ventricular tachycardia
- Thyroid disorders: Hyperthyroidism
- Anemia: Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity leads to faster heart rate
- Lung diseases: COPD or pulmonary embolism
- Electrolyte imbalances: Low potassium or magnesium levels
- Side effects of medications: Some bronchodilators, decongestants, or stimulant drugs
Symptoms of Tachycardia
- Palpitations (feeling of a rapid or pounding heartbeat)
- Dizziness or fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain (requires immediate medical attention)
- Fatigue
Diagnosis
A doctor may order the following tests to determine the cause: - Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm - Holter monitor for continuous heart rate recording - Blood tests to check thyroid function, anemia, or infection - Echocardiogram to evaluate heart structure - Stress test to monitor response to exertion
Treatment Options
1. Lifestyle Changes
- Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption
- Stay hydrated
- Practice stress reduction techniques (meditation, deep breathing)
- Maintain a balanced diet
2. Medications
- Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers for heart rate control
- Antiarrhythmic drugs if needed
3. Medical Procedures
- Electrical cardioversion (for certain types of tachycardia)
- Catheter ablation (for persistent arrhythmias)
When to Seek Emergency Help?
Seek urgent medical attention if tachycardia is accompanied by: - Severe chest pain - Shortness of breath - Fainting or near-fainting episodes
Conclusion
A high heart rate may be a temporary reaction to stress or exertion, but persistent tachycardia requires evaluation to rule out underlying conditions. Consult your doctor if you frequently experience a rapid heartbeat.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Tachycardia
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/tachycardia--fast-heart-rate
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines/algorithms
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://cpr.heart.org/-/media/cpr-files/cpr-guidelines-files/algorithms/algorithmacls_tachycardia_200612.pdf
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Supraventricular Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14557344/
- 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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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.