Tachycardia is a common type of arrhythmia in which the heart beats faster than normal while at rest. There are many different types of abnormal tachycardia. Common types include:

• Atrial fibrillation
• Atrial flutter
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
• Ventricular tachycardia
• Ventricular fibrillation

Many things can cause tachycardia, including:

• Damage to heart tissues from heart disease
• Abnormal electrical pathways in the heart present at birth
• Disease or congenital abnormality of the heart
• Anemia
• Exercise
• Sudden stress, such as fright
• High or low blood pressure
• Smoking
• Fever
• Drinking too much alcohol or caffeine
• Medication side effects
• Abuse of recreational drugs, such as cocaine
• Imbalance of electrolytes
• Hyperthyroidism

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of tachycardia may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness
• Rapid pulse rate
• Heart palpitations
• Chest pain
• Syncope

Diagnosis

To diagnose tachycardia, a Deborah Specialty Physician may perform tests specific to arrhythmia, including:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Holter monitor
• Event monitor
• Echocardiogram
• Implantable loop recorder