Rapid Heartbeat

What is it?

Tachycardia at rest (heart rate > 100 bpm) has many causes ranging from benign physiologic responses to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Sinus tachycardia — the most common type — is a normal increase in heart rate due to fever, anxiety, dehydration, anemia, pain, or stimulant use, and resolves when the underlying cause is treated. Pathological tachycardias include supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia (a medical emergency), and others. Any tachycardia with hemodynamic compromise (syncope, chest pain, shortness of breath) requires immediate care.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Rapid heartbeat with chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness — seek emergency care
• 2Tachycardia that begins suddenly at rest and terminates abruptly (SVT pattern)
• 3Heart rate consistently above 100 bpm at rest without obvious cause
• 4Palpitations with near-fainting or actual syncope
• 5Rapid, irregular heartbeat especially in someone with risk factors for atrial fibrillation

What you can do

• ✓Reduce or eliminate caffeine, energy drinks, and nicotine
• ✓Practice vagal maneuvers (bearing down, cold water on face, carotid massage) — can terminate SVT
• ✓Manage stress with mindfulness, exercise, and sleep — anxiety is a common driver
• ✓Stay well hydrated — dehydration increases resting heart rate
• ✓Track when episodes occur, how long they last, and what you were doing — aids diagnosis

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions