Rapid Pulse (Tachycardia)

Introduction

A rapid pulse, also known as tachycardia, is a condition where the heart rate is higher than 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 exceeds 100 bpm, it is considered tachycardia. This can be a normal physiological response to stress or exercise, but in some cases, it may indicate an underlying medical issue that needs attention.

Causes of Rapid Pulse

1. Physiological Causes (Normal Responses to External Factors)

• Physical exertion (exercise or manual labor)
• Emotional stress and anxiety
• Fever and infections
• Pain
• Consumption of stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or certain medications)

2. Cardiac Causes (Heart-Related Issues)

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib) – Irregular rapid heartbeat
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) – Rapid heartbeat originating from the upper chambers of the heart
• Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – Dangerous rhythm from the lower chambers causing a severe decrease in heart function
• Heart failure – Weak heart function resulting in compensatory rapid heart rate
• Myocardial infarction (Heart Attack) – The heart compensates for damaged tissue by pumping faster

3. Non-Cardiac Medical Conditions

• Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism)
• Anemia (low red blood cell count, leading to increased heart rate)
• Dehydration (low blood volume requires the heart to beat faster)
• Electrolyte imbalances (abnormal potassium, magnesium, or calcium levels)

Symptoms of a Rapid Pulse

• Palpitations (feeling like the heart is “racing” or “fluttering”)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Weakness or fatigue
• Fainting in severe cases

When to Seek Medical Attention

A rapid pulse is a medical emergency if you experience: - Heart rate persistently above 120–150 bpm at rest - Severe shortness of breath - Chest pain or pressure - Dizziness leading to fainting - Confusion and altered mental state

Diagnosis

A doctor will typically perform: - Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – Measures electrical activity of the heart - Holter monitor – A portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours - Blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid function, and electrolytes - Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) if structural heart issues are suspected

Treatment Options

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and other stimulants
• Manage stress through meditation or relaxation techniques
• Improve sleep quality
• Regular exercise (appropriate for health conditions)

2. Medical Treatment

• Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to control heart rate
• Antiarrhythmic medications for specific rhythm disorders
• Anticoagulants (blood thinners) if atrial fibrillation is present
• Electrical cardioversion (controlled shock) if needed
• Ablation therapy to correct abnormal electrical pathways

Conclusion

A rapid pulse can be harmless in temporary situations such as exercise or anxiety. However, when persistent or associated with symptoms like dizziness or chest pain, it requires medical evaluation. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, seek emergency help immediately.

References

• American Heart Association Guidelines
• European Society of Cardiology Guidelines

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines

1. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
2. https://www.heart.org/
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
4. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
5. https://atlas.heart.org/

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/39/4043/7238227
5. https://www.escardio.org/