Tachycardia (High Heart Rate): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The term “tachycardia” refers to an irregularly rapid heartbeat in which the heart beats more than 100 times per minute while at rest. For a few seconds to several hours, your heart beats more quickly than usual when you have tachycardia. Your resting heart rate should be between 60 and 100 beats per minute.

During rest, tachycardia is defined as a heartbeat that occurs more than 100 times per minute. As a result, your heart will not have enough time to fill with blood in between beats because it beats too frequently. This could be harmful if your heart cannot provide all your cells with the blood and oxygen they require. Normally, the sinoatrial (SA) node in your heart sends electrical signals to your heart. Your heart’s frequency of beat is regulated by these signals. Your heart may temporarily send impulses more frequently if you’ve experienced a scare, are really agitated or nervous, or are exercising.

Types

Tachycardia can take many forms. A typical rise in heart rate, frequently brought on by stress or activity, is known as sinus tachycardia. The causes of other types of tachycardia and the heart’s specific region causing the rapid heartbeat are categorized. Typical forms of tachycardia brought on by erratic cardiac rhythms include:

• AFib, also known as atrial fibrillation – It is the most prevalent kind of Tachycardia. The heart’s top chambers, or atria, are where chaotic, erratic electrical signals first appear. These impulses bring on a rapid heartbeat. Temporary Afib is possible.
• Atrial Flutter – A-fib and atrial flutter are similar, however atrial flutter has more regular heartbeats. Atrial fibrillation episodes may resolve on their own or may require medical attention. Atrial fibrillation is frequently accompanied by A-fib in patients.
• Ventricular Tachycardia – The ventricles, which are the lower heart chambers, are the source of this erratic heartbeat. Too much blood is pumped into the body by the ventricles because of the rapid heartbeat. Without causing injury, episodes might be short, lasting only a few seconds. However, if an episode lasts longer than a few seconds, it may be fatal.
• SVT, or Supraventricular Tachycardia – The general name for irregular heart rhythms that begin above the lower heart chambers is supraventricular tachycardia. Heart-pounding occurrences that come on suddenly are a symptom of supraventricular tachycardia.
• Ventricular Fibrillation – Failure to restore the cardiac rhythm within minutes might be fatal in this critical condition. The lower heart chambers quiver rather than contract in a coordinated manner due to rapid and disorganized electrical signals. The majority of individuals who have this kind of abnormal heart rhythm either have cardiac disease or have had a major injury, like being hit by lightning.

Symptoms

There are some tachycardia sufferers who show no symptoms. If an examination or cardiac tests are performed for another purpose, the rapid heartbeat can be detected. These symptoms are generally associated with tachycardia:

• Palpitations
• Chest aches
• Passing Out
• Feeling dizzy
• A fast heartbeat
• Breathlessness

Causes

An elevated heart rate, for whatever reason, is known as tachycardia. Different types of tachycardia can result from most heart diseases. Arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, are a common cause. The following are other factors that might cause tachycardia:

• A fever.
• Exposure to high temperatures can cause a rise in heart rate.
• Drinking too much alcohol.
• Anaemia.
• Heart rate can spike momentarily when you stand up from a seated position.
• Endocrine or hormonal abnormality.
• Rehab from alcohol.
• A surplus of caffeine.
• Hypertension or hypotension.
• Variations in the body’s electrolyte (or mineral) levels. Examples include magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium.
• A few medications.

Risk Factors

Generally speaking, the following may be some of the risk factors for tachycardia:

• Aging is one factor that may increase the chance of tachycardia-causing abnormal heart rhythms.
• Possessing a family history of certain cardiac rhythm problems.
• Elevated BP.

Complications

An excessively rapid heartbeat may result in insufficient blood flow to the body. Consequently, the tissues and organs might not receive adequate oxygen. The following are a few of the complications arising due to tachycardia:

• Blood clots that can result in a heart attack or stroke are one of the possible side effects of tachycardia.
• Consistent fainting or unconsciousness
• A sudden heart attack.

Diagnosis

Tachycardia diagnosis involves reviewing medical history, conducting a physical exam, and performing diagnostic tests to identify the cause and evaluate heart function.

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

Healthcare providers begin by gathering a detailed medical history, including any family history of heart disease, arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac events. They may ask about symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or chest pain. A physical exam is conducted to detect heart-related issues, including irregular heartbeat, unusual heart sounds, or leg swelling.

2. Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG is a primary test used to detect tachycardia. It records the electrical activity of the heart and helps identify abnormal rhythms or patterns. Since tachycardia episodes may be intermittent, doctors might recommend continuous monitoring using specialized devices.

3. Heart Monitoring Devices

• Holter Monitor: A portable device is worn for 24–48 hours to continuously record the heart’s electrical activity. It captures irregular heart rhythms that may not occur during a standard ECG.
• Event Monitor: Like a Holter monitor, but designed for prolonged use, usually spanning about 30 days. It records the heart’s rhythm only when activated by the patient during symptoms or automatically when abnormal activity is detected.
• Implantable Loop Recorder: A small device placed under the skin that continuously monitors heart rhythms for up to several years. It is used for infrequent arrhythmias that are difficult to capture with short-term monitoring.

4. Stress Test

A stress test evaluates how the heart responds to physical exertion. The patient’s heart activity is tracked while they walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike. This test can reveal exercise-induced tachycardia or underlying coronary artery disease.

5. Imaging Tests

• Echocardiogram: Sound waves are used to generate detailed images of the heart’s structure and performance. It helps detect heart abnormalities, such as valve issues or weakened heart muscles.
• Cardiac MRI or CT Scan: These imaging tests produce cross-sectional views of the heart, helping doctors detect structural abnormalities or scarring that could cause tachycardia.

6. Blood Tests

Blood tests are conducted to identify underlying conditions that may cause or contribute to tachycardia. These tests check for:

• Thyroid function is used to detect hyperthyroidism.
• Electrolyte imbalances can affect heart rhythm.
• Markers of inflammation or infection that may impact heart function.

7. Electrophysiology (EP) Study

An EP study is a specialized procedure used to assess the heart’s electrical system. During the test, thin, flexible wires (catheters) are inserted through blood vessels into the heart. The test helps pinpoint the location of the abnormal rhythm and determine the most effective treatment.

8. Tilt Table Test

In cases where tachycardia causes fainting or dizziness, a tilt table test may be performed. The patient lies flat on a table, which is gradually tilted to an upright position. Heart rate and blood pressure changes are monitored to identify conditions like postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).

Accurate diagnosis of tachycardia through these tests helps healthcare providers determine the appropriate treatment plan, whether it involves lifestyle changes, medications, or specialized procedures.

Treatment

Tachycardia treatment focuses on slowing the heart rate, preventing future episodes, and addressing underlying causes.

1. Immediate Treatment

• Vagal Maneuvers: Coughing, bearing down, or applying a cold compress to slow the heart rate.
• Medications: Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and anti-arrhythmic drugs help regulate heart rhythm.
• Electrical Cardioversion: A controlled electric shock restores normal rhythm in severe cases.

2. Long-Term Management

• Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine and alcohol, managing stress, and exercising regularly.
• Medications: Ongoing use of beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic drugs to prevent recurrence.
• Catheter Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure to destroy abnormal heart tissue.
• Implantable Devices:
  • Pacemaker: Regulates slow or irregular heart rhythms.
  • ICD: Delivers a shock to correct life-threatening rhythms.

3. Treating Underlying Causes

• Managing heart disease, thyroid disorders, or electrolyte imbalances.
• In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Effective tachycardia management involves symptom control, lifestyle adjustments, and treating root causes.

Prevention

Maintaining heart health is the best defense against tachycardia. See your doctor on a regular basis. Adhere to your treatment plan if you have heart disease. Try these suggestions to maintain heart health and prevent heart disease:

• Abstain from smoking.
• Consume less salt and saturated fat in your diet.
• On the majority of weekdays, work out for at least 30 minutes each day.
• Maintain a healthy body mass.
• Lower and control your stress.
• Manage diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

When to See a Doctor?

Schedule a health examination with your doctor if you believe your heart is pounding too quickly or see these other symptoms :

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Breathing difficulty
• Frailty
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Dying or coming close to dying

It’s not always an issue when your heart rate is fast. When exercising or under stress, for example, the heart rate often increases. A tachycardia might not result in any problems or symptoms. However, occasionally, it signals a health issue that requires care. If treatment is not received for certain types of tachycardia, major health issues may result.

Frequently Asked Questions