Knowra Tachycardia Tachycardia Tachycardia is an abnormally fast heart rate, generally more than 100 beats per minute in a resting adult. It may arise from normal sinus rhythm or an abnormal electrical rhythm.
Sinus tachycardia : A fast but normally organized heart rhythm generated by the sinoatrial node. It raises the rate through the heart’s usual pacemaker, often in response to exercise, fever, or stress.
Heart rate : The number of heartbeats per unit of time, usually measured in beats per minute. Tachycardia is defined by an elevated value of this measure.
Palpitations : The subjective sensation of a fast, pounding, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat. People with tachycardia may notice palpitations, though the sensation does not identify the rhythm.
Exercise : Physical activity that increases energy use and demands on the cardiovascular system. A faster sinus rate during exercise is usually a normal response, not a disease.
Supraventricular tachycardia : A group of rapid heart rhythms that originate above the ventricles. Re-entry circuits or abnormal impulses above the ventricles can cause sudden episodes.
Cardiac conduction system : The network of specialized heart cells that initiates and conducts electrical impulses for each heartbeat. Its pacemaker and pathways determine how quickly the heart contracts.
Holter monitor : A portable electrocardiogram device that records heart rhythm continuously, usually for one or more days. It can capture episodes that do not occur during a brief clinic electrocardiogram.
Fever : A temporary rise in body temperature, often caused by infection or inflammation. Fever commonly raises the heart rate through sinus tachycardia.
Ventricular tachycardia : A rapid heart rhythm originating in the ventricles, which can impair circulation or become life-threatening. Its ventricular origin makes this form especially urgent to recognize.
Sinoatrial node : A group of specialized cells in the right atrium that normally initiates each heartbeat. A faster firing rate at this natural pacemaker produces sinus tachycardia.
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