7g: Tachycardia (2024)

This lesson discusses Tachycardia. Tachycardia can be classified as either stable or unstable. These classifications are defined and the symptoms of tachycardia are listed.

Tachycardia is a heart rate of greater than 100 beats per minute. When the heart beats too quickly, there is a shortened relaxation phase. This causes two main problems: the ventricles are unable to fill completely, causing cardiac output to decrease; and the coronary arteries receive less blood, causing supply to the heart to decrease.

Tachycardia is classified as stable or unstable. Heart rates greater than or equal to 150 beats per minute usually cause symptoms. Unstable tachycardia always requires prompt attention. Stable tachycardia can become unstable.

Symptoms of tachycardia include hypotension, sweating, pulmonary edema or congestion, jugular venous distension, chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness, and altered mental state.

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