What is tachycardia?

Tachycardia refers to an abnormally rapid heartbeat, typically defined as a resting heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can occur due to various factors, including stress, anxiety, fever, anemia, or heart disease, among others. An increased heart rate can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or fatigue and may require medical attention if it persists or is associated with other concerning symptoms.

Understanding tachycardia as an abnormally rapid heartbeat helps distinguish it from other cardiac conditions, such as irregular heartbeat, slow heart rate, and normal heartbeat, which are defined by different rates and rhythms of heart activity.