Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
About Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
A normal adult heart beats between 60 and 100 times a minute. A heart rate over 100 beats a minute is called tachycardia. Tachycardia can be the result of a normal physiologic response such as running. When it occurs at rest it is usually considered abnormal. There are many causes but can be divided into primary and secondary. Primary causes are from problems in the heart such as abnormally beating cells. Secondary causes are from a reaction to a stress on the body such as dehydration or infection.Symptoms
Palpitations, light-headedness, shortness of breath, sweating. Often there are no symptoms.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests are done to identify the cause of a persistent or recurrent rapid heart rate.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the cause of the tachycardia. Secondary tachycardias are resolved by treating the disorder causing the stress on the body. Treatment for primary tachycardias depends on where in the heart the abnormal beating cells are located. Tachycardias arising from the atrium (supraventricular tachycardia) are treated with medications and/or a catheter ablation of the cells causing the problem. Ventricular tachycardias are emergencies and are treated with medications, electrical shocks, or placement of an internal defibrillator.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Cardiology · Pediatrics · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Tachycardia (fast heart rate).