What Is Tachycardia, and What Are Its Symptoms and Causes?

Question

I’ve been experiencing an unusually fast heart rate recently, and my doctor mentioned tachycardia as a possible cause. I’m now wondering—what exactly is tachycardia, and what are its symptoms and causes?

From what I understand, tachycardia is a condition where the heart rate exceeds normal levels, typically over 100 beats per minute for adults. But what causes this sudden increase in heart rate—could it be related to anxiety, exercise, or more serious heart conditions like arrhythmias? How do I know if I’m experiencing tachycardia, and when should I seek medical attention?

I also read that tachycardia can sometimes cause dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest pain. If left untreated, can it lead to heart failure or other complications? How do doctors diagnose tachycardia, and what are the treatment options available—do lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery help manage it?

Since I prefer natural treatments, I looked into Ayurveda’s perspective on managing tachycardia and heart health. Are there Ayurvedic herbs or practices that can help in reducing heart rate and supporting overall cardiovascular function? I found that herbs like Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and regular Pranayama practice are often recommended—do these actually help in improving heart function and managing tachycardia naturally?

For those who have dealt with tachycardia, what treatments or lifestyle changes worked best for you? Did medications, herbal remedies, or lifestyle modifications help you manage tachycardia effectively? I’d love to hear real insights on managing tachycardia safely.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Tachycardia is a condition where the heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute in adults, often leading to symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or palpitations. It can be caused by various factors, including anxiety, stress, fever, exercise, or more serious heart conditions such as arrhythmias or heart disease. To determine if you're experiencing tachycardia, you can check your pulse, but it's important to seek medical attention if you have persistent symptoms or feel unwell. Left untreated, tachycardia can sometimes lead to complications like heart failure or stroke. Doctors diagnose it through an ECG or other heart tests and may recommend treatments like medications (beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics), lifestyle changes (stress management, exercise), or, in severe cases, surgery or ablation. In Ayurveda, herbs like Arjuna (supports heart health), Ashwagandha (helps manage stress and balance energy), and practices like Pranayama (breathing exercises for stress reduction) are often used to naturally improve heart function and manage tachycardia. Many people find relief through a combination of lifestyle changes (diet, exercise), herbal remedies, and stress-reducing techniques, though it’s essential to work with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective management.

What Is Tachycardia, and What Are Its Symptoms and Causes? - #15944

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