How many beats per minute is considered tachycardia?

Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
Updated on September 11, 2024
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Tachycardia refers to the phenomenon where the heartbeat exceeds 100 beats per minute. From a medical perspective, this can be classified into various types of tachycardia including sinus tachycardia, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, among others. If one experiences such symptoms, it is crucial to visit a hospital for proper checks. An electrocardiogram (ECG) should be done to determine the specific type of tachycardia. Additionally, a complete blood count should be performed to check for anemia that might be causing tachycardia. Thyroid function tests including TSH, T3, and T4 should be conducted to rule out hyperthyroidism as a possible cause. Also, an echocardiogram should be done to check for any structural heart diseases that might lead to tachycardia.

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Palpitations means tachycardia.

Tachycardia, as the name suggests, means that the heart beats fast. How many beats per minute constitute a fast heartbeat or tachycardia? Clinically, it is generally considered that a heartbeat exceeding 100 beats/min can be termed as tachycardia. There are various types of tachycardia, such as sinus tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, or ventricular tachycardia. There are also atrial tachycardia and junctional tachycardia. The origin of tachycardia varies, and its clinical significance is completely different. Therefore, it is essential to identify the nature of the tachycardia in order to treat it effectively. How to confirm the diagnosis? In this case, it is best to obtain an electrocardiogram during an episode. If the electrocardiogram at the moment of occurrence is not available, it is recommended to wear a 24-hour Holter monitor to determine the cause further. Only after identifying the cause can targeted treatment be administered.

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Cardiology
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Can someone with tachycardia do heavy work?

If the patient experiences tachycardia, it is recommended that the patient avoid strenuous physical labor, as engaging in heavy physical activity at this time may increase the cardiac load, further exacerbating myocardial ischemia, leading to an increase in myocardial oxygen consumption. When this condition occurs, it is important to rest and not engage in heavy physical labor. It is also advisable for the patient to visit a hospital to have an electrocardiogram (ECG) checked to rule out coronary heart disease and arrhythmias that may be causing the sinus tachycardia, as sometimes this condition needs to be managed. If the heart rate is too fast, it may sometimes worsen symptoms of heart palpitations.

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Is tachycardia dangerous?

If the patient frequently experiences this type of tachycardia with a heart rate exceeding one hundred beats per minute, it is recommended that the patient visit a hospital to undergo an electrocardiogram examination. If tachycardia is confirmed, it is advised to identify the underlying cause. For tachycardia occurring under conditions of anxiety or stress, it is advised that the patient actively manage and control their heart rate to alleviate symptoms such as palpitations and chest tightness. If the patient presents with other complications, especially conditions like coronary heart disease or diabetes with hypertension, it is crucial to actively manage the tachycardia. Sometimes, medication may be necessary to treat this condition.

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Cardiology
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Can atropine be used for tachycardia?

Tachycardia is a common and frequently occurring condition clinically, which can be observed in healthy populations as well as in those suffering from certain cardiac diseases causing tachycardia. The choice of medication should be made under the guidance of a doctor, and it is crucial not to misuse drugs arbitrarily. Tachycardia should not be treated with atropine, as its primary side effects can induce tachycardia. Using atropine can cause an already rapid heart rate to increase further, resulting in significant damage to the body. Tachycardia needs medications that inhibit sympathetic nerve excitement, commonly using receptor blockers, which can effectively suppress excessively rapid heart rhythms.

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Can tachycardia resolve on its own?

Tachycardia can resolve on its own, but this is typically under physiological conditions. Especially in situations of stress or emotional excitement, tachycardia can resolve on its own. However, if it is due to a pathological disease, this is not the case. Particularly, it is important to re-examine the electrocardiogram, monitor changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse. If the heart rate is too fast and blood pressure is elevated, sometimes active treatment and symptom control are necessary. Additionally, if it cannot resolve on its own, it is first necessary to rule out coronary heart disease, psychological disorders, and other pathological changes that might cause this condition.