Tachycardia is a condition in which the heart beats faster than normal, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. While an increased heart rate can be a natural response to stress, physical activity, or illness, tachycardia that occurs without a clear trigger or that persists for long periods may signal an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
There are various types of tachycardia, and each affects different parts of the heart. Some forms are relatively harmless and can be managed with lifestyle adjustments, while others may lead to more serious complications if left untreated, like heart failure, stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest.
Tachycardia can arise due to disruptions in the heart’s electrical system. The heart’s electrical impulses, which control the timing of heartbeats, can become abnormal and lead to a faster-than-normal rhythm. This can happen in the upper chambers (atria) or lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart, and the specific type of tachycardia will depend on where these electrical abnormalities originate.
Though some cases of tachycardia are temporary and benign, such as those triggered by fever, exercise, or anxiety, others may stem from chronic conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or thyroid disorders. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking a proper diagnosis is crucial for determining the best course of action to manage the condition and prevent complications.
In this guide, we provide a comprehensive explanation to aid in understanding the condition by exploring:
Symptoms of tachycardia
The symptoms of tachycardia can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of tachycardia and the underlying cause. In some cases, a fast heart rate may not cause noticeable symptoms, but when it does, common signs include:
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations – a noticeable sensation of a fast or fluttering heart
- Shortness of breath – not being able to catch your breath, especially during physical activity or at rest
- Dizziness or lightheadedness – suddenly feeling faint or unsteady on your feet
- Chest pain or discomfort – pressure or pain in the chest that can feel like the symptoms of a heart attack
- Fainting (syncope) – temporary loss of consciousness caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain
- Fatigue – extreme tiredness or weakness that persists due to the heart’s inability to pump blood efficiently
The severity of these symptoms can vary based on the type of tachycardia, as well as the health of the individual. For example, in cases of ventricular tachycardia, symptoms may appear more abruptly and can be life-threatening if left untreated, whereas sinus tachycardia may be more benign and caused by everyday factors like stress or exercise.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they come on suddenly or become more severe, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to rule out any serious heart conditions.
Causes and risk factors of tachycardia
Tachycardia is typically caused by disruptions in the electrical signals that control the heart’s rhythm. These disruptions can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Heart disease – Conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, or previous heart attacks can damage the heart’s electrical system and lead to tachycardia.
- High blood pressure (hypertension) – Uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase the risk of tachycardia by putting extra strain on the heart.
- Thyroid problems – An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause the heart to beat faster than normal.
- Electrolyte imbalances – Imbalances in essential minerals like potassium, calcium, or magnesium can affect the heart’s electrical impulses.
- Stress and anxiety – Emotional or physical stress can temporarily cause the heart rate to increase.
- Caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol – These stimulants can trigger tachycardia, especially in high doses or in individuals with sensitivity to them.
- Fever or infections – The body’s response to infection or fever often includes an increased heart rate as the body works to fight off illness.
Some people are more prone to developing tachycardia due to certain risk factors, including age, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle choices. It’s important to identify and address these risk factors to manage or prevent episodes of tachycardia.
Types of tachycardia
There are several types of tachycardia, each affecting different parts of the heart and having unique implications for health.
Sinus tachycardia – Sinus tachycardia is a normal increase in heart rate that occurs when the body needs more oxygen-rich blood, such as during exercise or a fever. However, if it persists without an apparent cause, it could indicate an underlying health issue like anemia or hyperthyroidism. Although generally harmless, chronic sinus tachycardia may require treatment if it causes symptoms or occurs in response to a medical condition.
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – Ventricular tachycardia originates in the ventricles, or lower chambers, of the heart. It is a serious condition because it can prevent the heart from pumping enough blood to the body and lead to cardiac arrest. VT is often linked to previous heart damage, such as from a heart attack or cardiomyopathy, and requires immediate medical attention. If untreated, VT can be fatal.
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) – SVT affects the heart’s upper chambers (atria) and causes a rapid but usually regular heart rate. It can occur suddenly and may last for a few minutes to several hours. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common SVT, but there are other types, including atrioventricular re-entry tachycardia (AVRT), atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT), atrial flutter, and atrial tachycardia. While SVT is not typically life-threatening, it can cause distressing symptoms and interfere with daily activities. Episodes of SVT are often triggered by factors like stress, caffeine, or certain medications.
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) – POTS is a form of tachycardia that occurs when a person moves from lying down to standing. It is caused by a dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, which regulates heart rate and blood pressure. POTS can lead to dizziness, fainting, and extreme fatigue that make it difficult to perform everyday tasks. The exact cause of POTS is not always clear, but it is often seen in young women and can be associated with conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Diagnosing tachycardia
Diagnosing tachycardia involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing. Your Oklahoma Heart Hospital physician will assess your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors before recommending one or more of the following tests.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – records electrical activity of the heart and identifies any irregularities in the heart’s rhythm (the most common test).
- Holter monitor – portable ECG device worn for 24–48 hours to capture heart activity over a longer period, particularly useful for detecting intermittent tachycardia episodes.
- Echocardiogram – ultrasound of the heart that provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function to help detect abnormalities contributing to tachycardia.
- Stress test – monitors heart’s response to physical exertion to evaluate how well the heart works under stress.
- Electrophysiological study (EPS) – places catheters in the heart to pinpoint the location and cause of abnormal electrical signals.
Diagnosing the specific type of tachycardia is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatments for tachycardia
Treatment for tachycardia depends on the type, underlying cause, and severity of symptoms. Common treatment options include:
Medications – Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs are often prescribed to slow the heart rate and prevent abnormal heart rhythms. These medications may be used long term to manage chronic tachycardia or in acute settings to control episodes.
Cardioversion – This procedure involves delivering an electrical shock to the heart to reset its rhythm. It is commonly used in emergency situations to restore a normal heart rate in cases of severe tachycardia, particularly ventricular tachycardia.
Catheter ablation – A minimally invasive procedure, catheter ablation targets and destroys the small areas of heart tissue responsible for abnormal electrical signals. Catheter ablation is a highly effective treatment for certain types of tachycardia, such as SVT and VT.
Implantable devices – For patients with severe or life-threatening forms of tachycardia, such as VT, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or pacemaker may be necessary. These devices monitor the heart’s rhythm and deliver electrical impulses or shocks when abnormal rhythms are detected in order to prevent sudden cardiac death.
Lifestyle modifications – Patients with tachycardia are often advised to make lifestyle changes to reduce episodes. This may include limiting caffeine and alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and following a heart-healthy diet. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can also improve heart health and reduce the frequency of tachycardia episodes.
In many cases, a combination of treatments is used to control symptoms and prevent complications. Ongoing monitoring and regular check-ups are important to ensure that the condition remains under control and to adjust treatment as necessary.
Tachycardia can range from a harmless increase in heart rate to a life-threatening condition. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to managing the condition effectively and avoiding complications.
At Oklahoma Heart Hospital, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tachycardia and other heart rhythm disorders. Our expert team offers advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, including lifestyle changes, medication, and minimally invasive procedures like catheter ablation. We’re committed to helping patients live healthier, fuller lives.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of tachycardia, contact the Oklahoma Heart Hospital today to explore your options.