A fast heart rate or tachycardia is described as a heart rhythm in which the rate of impulses signaling the heart to contract becomes elevated states the book "The Principles and Practice of Medicine." These impulses increase the rate of contraction without altering the hearts normal rhythm, called sinus rhythm, indicating that the impulse comes from the sinus node in the heart. A normal heart rate is between 65 to 100 beats per minute. When the rate exceeds 100 beats per minute the condition is termed sinus tachycardia. Multiple reasons for sinus tachycardia have been identified.
Exercise
In a normal functioning heart, the response to exercise should cause an increase in heart rate. Pain and stress can also cause the heart rate to increase says the book, "The Principles and Practice of Medicine," by Mary Klingensmith, MD, Li Ern Chen, MD, Sean Glasgow, MD, Trudie Goers, MD and Spencer Melby, MD. Stress mediates a release of hormones which affect the heart rate. Anxiety, fright and anger also cause a similar response.
Dehydration
In response to dehydration, the heart muscle works faster in order to keep adequate blood flowing to the tissues according to Drs. Emily Rivet and Craig Coopersmith in their chapter "Critical Care" in the book "The Washington Manual of Surgery." By pumping faster, the heart moves fluid through the system quickly in order to keep blood flowing to vital organs. Rehydrating the body will slow the heart rate down.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland creates excess thyroid hormone, can cause widespread organ system manifestations. Tachycardia may occur as a symptom of hyperthyroidism. Many patients will complain that may they feel their "motor is running too fast" and suffer hyperactivity, heat intolerance, increased sweating and weight loss according to the "Washington Manual of Surgery."
References
- Washington Manual of Surgery. Fifth Edition. Mary Klingensmith, MD, Li Ern Chen, MD, Sean Glasgow, MD, Trudie Goers, MD, Spencer Melby, MD. 2008
- "The Principles and Practice of Medicine". John Stobo, MD, David Hellmann, MD, Paul Ladenson, MD, Brent Petty, MD, Thomas Traill, FRCP. 1996
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