Tachycardia or Rapid Heart Rate

Chest | Cardiology | Tachycardia or Rapid Heart Rate (Symptom)


Description

Tachycardia is the medical name given rapid heartbeat. A healthy adult heart beats 60-90 times when the person is at rest. For persons suffering from tachycardia, the heart rate exceeds the average. The heart rate is controlled by electrical signals transmitted through the cardiac tissue.

Causes

Tachycardia occurs when a problem in electrical signals produces a heartbeat that is faster than normal. Tachycardia may not have symptoms or complications in some cases. However, tachycardia can seriously affect the normal functioning of the heart, increasing the risk of stroke or the occurrence of cardiac arrest. When the heart rate is too fast, it can lead to oxygen deprivation of the organs and tissues.

An uncontrolled heart rhythm leads to the following symptoms: dizziness; breathing fast; increased pulse; palpitations; chest pain; syncope. Medical problems may occur when the heart palpitations persist or occur in short intervals. Physicians believe that, up to a certain point, tachycardia can be very useful because it helps to adapt to stressful situations or effort. This condition occurs after a panic attack, excess of coffee, emotions, effort, and stress. ...