Overview Of The Types Of Tachycardia

Tachycardia is a term that includes heart rates that are too fast. Specifically, a patient with this condition will have a heart rate that is faster than one hundred beats per minute. This condition has several causes. Examples include anemia, heart attacks, an overactive thyroid, and heart failure. It also occurs due to abnormal heart structure and as a side effect of blood pressure medication. Major risk factors include drinking large amounts of caffeine and smoking.

Many patients receive anti-arrhythmic medication for tachycardia. The first medications given are anti-arrhythmic injections in a hospital. Many patients also undergo cardioversion for tachycardia. Pacemakers and surgery for tachycardia are also common treatments. Of course, the chosen tachycardia treatment depends on the type that an individual has!

Atrial Flutter

Atrial flutter affects the atria. These are the heart's upper chambers! This type of tachycardia occurs when the atria beat too fast. However, atrial flutter is still a regular heartbeat. It is simply faster than normal! This condition occurs due to problems with the electrical pulses in the heart. Although it is similar to atrial fibrillation, the heart rhythm in an individual with this condition is organized. However, it is vital to note that patients often experience symptoms of both conditions! Certain patients only exhibit a fast heartbeat. However, atrial flutter does lead to serious complications. Examples include heart failure and a stroke!

This condition is easily treatable. Patients are typically prescribed medication! The surgery recommended for it is a procedure that scars the heart. Prompt treatment is key because of the risk of complications. The patient's heart will not circulate blood properly in this condition. Thus, their organs do not get enough oxygen. This is what triggers complications!

Learn about additional forms of tachycardia now.