Tachycardia

Overview

Tachycardia is a medical condition where your heart beats faster than normal, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute at rest. While occasional increases in heart rate are normal during exercise or stress, persistent tachycardia can be a sign of an underlying health issue requiring medical attention. At Cardiology Care NYC, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tachycardia with cutting-edge technology and personalized care.

Causes

Tachycardia can occur due to several reasons, including:

Underlying Heart Conditions
Coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or heart failure.

Lifestyle Factors
Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or stress.

Medical Conditions
Hyperthyroidism, anemia, or fever.

Electrical Abnormalities in the Heart
Issues with the heart’s electrical pathways can lead to arrhythmias like tachycardia.
Identifying the root cause is vital for determining the most effective treatment.

Symptoms

Patients with tachycardia may experience symptoms such as:

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations).
• Shortness of breath.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Fainting (syncope).

If you experience these symptoms, especially chest pain or fainting, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosis

Our cardiology clinic in NYC is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate tachycardia accurately. Tests may include:

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
Records the electrical activity of your heart.

Holter Monitor
A portable device that tracks your heart rhythm over 24-48 hours.

Stress Test
Assesses heart performance during physical activity.

Echocardiogram
Uses ultrasound to create images of your heart. Electrophysiological study (EPS): Pinpoints electrical abnormalities in the heart. Our team of tachycardia specialists ensures a thorough evaluation to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for tachycardia depends on its type and underlying cause. Cardiology Care NYC offers a range of treatments, including:

Lifestyle Modifications
Reducing stress, cutting back on stimulants like caffeine, and maintaining a healthy weight can help control heart rate.

Medications
Anti-arrhythmic drugs, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers may be prescribed to regulate heart rhythm.

Catheter Ablation
A minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing the arrhythmia.

Implantable Devices
Pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may be recommended for more severe cases.

Surgery
In rare instances, surgical intervention may be required to correct structural heart issues. Our team combines expertise with advanced technology to provide the best care for tachycardia patients in NYC.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms of tachycardia, it’s important to consult a specialist. Symptoms such as fainting, severe shortness of breath, or chest pain warrant immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like heart failure, stroke, or cardiac arrest.