Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia)

Introduction

A rapid heartbeat, also known as tachycardia, refers to a heart rate that exceeds the normal resting rate. Typically, a normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). When the heart rate goes above 100 bpm, it is considered tachycardia.

Causes of Tachycardia

Tachycardia can be due to various factors, including:

1. Physiological Causes:

   • Exercise
   • Stress or anxiety
   • Fever
   • Pain

2. Heart-related (Cardiac) Causes:

   • Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
   • Coronary artery disease
   • Heart failure
   • Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)

3. Non-cardiac Causes:

   • Anemia (low red blood cell count)
   • Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
   • Dehydration
   • Low blood pressure
   • Certain medications, like decongestants or stimulants

Symptoms of Tachycardia

While some people may not experience any symptoms, others may notice: - Palpitations (feeling of a racing or pounding heart) - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Shortness of breath - Chest pain - Fainting

Diagnosis

To determine the cause of tachycardia, a doctor may perform: - Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the heart. - Holter monitor: A wearable ECG that monitors heart activity over 24-48 hours. - Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to visualize the heart’s structure and function. - Blood tests: Checks for underlying conditions like anemia or thyroid disorders.

Treatment

The treatment of tachycardia depends on its cause: - Lifestyle changes: Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and stress. - Medications: Such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. - Medical procedures: Catheter ablation (for arrhythmias), pacemakers, or cardioversion (for emergency cases).

When to Seek Medical Help

Seek immediate medical help if tachycardia is accompanied by: - Chest pain - Severe shortness of breath - Fainting or near-fainting - Sudden weakness

Conclusion

A rapid heartbeat can have many causes, ranging from benign to serious conditions. Proper diagnosis and management are key to preventing complications. If you experience persistent or troubling symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Tachycardia

1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/tachycardia--fast-heart-rate
2. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines/algorithms
3. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
4. https://cpr.heart.org/-/media/cpr-files/cpr-guidelines-files/algorithms/algorithmacls_tachycardia_200612.pdf
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Supraventricular Tachycardia

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504425/
4. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2019/09/10/12/36/2019-ESC-Guidelines-for-Supraventricular-Tachycardia
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311

3. American College of Cardiology/AHA/HRS Guidelines for the Evaluation and Management of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
2. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2023/11/29/18/58/New-ACC-AHA-Guideline-Focuses-on-Diagnosis-Management-of-AFib-gl-af
3. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000041
4. https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2018/11/05/15/12/2018-acc-aha-hrs-guideline-on-bradycardia
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000665