Heart Racing? Why Tachycardia Isn't Just Stress — And What to Do Next

A racing heart can feel alarming. Many people assume it's just stress, anxiety, or too much caffeine. And sometimes, that's true. But tachycardia—a medical term for a faster-than-normal heart rate—can also signal an underlying condition that deserves attention.

Understanding what tachycardia is, what causes it, and when to seek care can help you respond calmly and appropriately. Let's break it down in clear, practical terms.

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What Is Tachycardia?

Tachycardia refers to a resting heart rate over 100 beats per minute (bpm) in adults. A normal resting heart rate typically falls between 60 and 100 bpm.

It's important to know:

• A faster heart rate during exercise, fear, or excitement is normal.
• Tachycardia becomes a concern when it happens at rest, occurs frequently, or causes symptoms.

Your heart's rhythm is controlled by electrical signals. When those signals misfire or become disorganized, the heart may beat too fast, too hard, or irregularly.

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Why Tachycardia Isn't Always "Just Stress"

Stress and anxiety can absolutely trigger a rapid heartbeat. When you're under pressure, your body releases adrenaline, which increases heart rate.

However, persistent or sudden tachycardia may be linked to:

• Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias)
• Thyroid problems
• Anemia
• Dehydration
• Infections or fever
• Low blood pressure
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, certain medications)
• Heart disease

One common rhythm disorder is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), which causes episodes of sudden, rapid heartbeats that may start and stop abruptly. SVT can happen in otherwise healthy people and often feels like a racing or pounding heart.

If you're experiencing sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat and want to understand whether your symptoms align with Supraventricular Tachycardia, a free AI-powered symptom checker can help you identify patterns and prepare informed questions for your doctor.

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Types of Tachycardia

Tachycardia isn't one single condition. It's a category that includes several types:

1. Sinus Tachycardia

• The heart's natural pacemaker fires too quickly.
• Often caused by stress, fever, dehydration, or exercise.
• Usually not dangerous when the underlying cause is addressed.

2. Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

• Originates in the upper chambers of the heart.
• Sudden episodes of rapid heart rate (often 150–250 bpm).
• May cause palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

3. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

• Irregular and often rapid rhythm.
• More common in older adults.
• Increases risk of stroke if untreated.

4. Ventricular Tachycardia

• Starts in the lower chambers of the heart.
• Can be life-threatening.
• Requires urgent medical attention.

Understanding which type you may have is essential, because treatment varies significantly.

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Common Symptoms of Tachycardia

Some people notice symptoms immediately. Others may not realize anything is wrong.

Symptoms can include:

• Rapid heartbeat (over 100 bpm at rest)
• Pounding or fluttering in the chest
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Fatigue
• Fainting or near-fainting

While not every episode is dangerous, fainting, chest pain, or severe shortness of breath require immediate medical attention.

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When Is Tachycardia an Emergency?

Call emergency services or seek urgent care if tachycardia is accompanied by:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting
• Confusion
• Sudden weakness
• A history of heart disease with new symptoms

These may signal a serious cardiac event.

If symptoms are milder but recurring, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or a cardiologist.

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How Doctors Diagnose Tachycardia

If you speak to a doctor about tachycardia, they may recommend:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – records the heart's electrical activity
• Holter monitor – portable heart monitor worn for 24–48 hours
• Event monitor – tracks heart rhythm over weeks
• Blood tests – to check thyroid function, anemia, infection, or electrolyte levels
• Echocardiogram – ultrasound of the heart
• Stress testing – to assess heart function during activity

Diagnosis focuses on identifying both the type of tachycardia and its underlying cause.

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Treatment Options for Tachycardia

Treatment depends on the type and severity.

Lifestyle Changes

For mild or stress-related tachycardia:

• Reduce caffeine and alcohol
• Stay hydrated
• Get adequate sleep
• Manage stress (deep breathing, meditation, therapy)
• Quit smoking

Medications

Doctors may prescribe:

• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Anti-arrhythmic medications
• Blood thinners (for certain arrhythmias like AFib)

Procedures

In some cases:

• Vagal maneuvers (simple physical actions to slow heart rate)
• Cardioversion (resetting the heart rhythm)
• Catheter ablation (targeting abnormal electrical pathways)

Many cases of SVT, for example, can be successfully treated with catheter ablation, often providing long-term relief.

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Risk Factors for Tachycardia

You may be at higher risk if you:

• Have a history of heart disease
• Have high blood pressure
• Have thyroid disorders
• Use stimulant medications
• Consume high amounts of caffeine
• Experience chronic stress
• Have a family history of arrhythmias

Even healthy young adults can develop tachycardia, especially SVT. That's why new or unexplained symptoms shouldn't be dismissed.

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Can Tachycardia Be Prevented?

Not all tachycardia can be prevented, but you can reduce risk by:

• Maintaining a heart-healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol
• Limiting stimulants
• Managing stress effectively
• Staying hydrated
• Keeping up with routine medical checkups

Prevention starts with awareness.

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Don't Ignore a Racing Heart

It's important not to panic—but also not to brush off recurring tachycardia.

A fast heart rate can be:

• Temporary and harmless
• A manageable medical condition
• Or, in rare cases, a sign of something serious

The key is evaluation.

If your heart is racing frequently, if episodes start suddenly and stop abruptly, or if you feel dizzy or faint, taking a moment to assess your symptoms through a free Supraventricular Tachycardia symptom checker can help you gather valuable information before speaking with your healthcare provider.

Most importantly, speak to a doctor about any persistent, unexplained, or concerning symptoms. If something feels severe or life-threatening, seek emergency medical care immediately.

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The Bottom Line

Tachycardia isn't always "just stress." While anxiety and caffeine are common triggers, persistent or sudden episodes of a racing heart can signal an underlying rhythm disorder or medical condition.

The good news:
Many forms of tachycardia are treatable. Some are easily managed. Others can be corrected entirely with proper care.

Listening to your body, seeking medical advice when needed, and getting an accurate diagnosis are the smartest next steps.

Your heart works hard for you every second. If it's racing without a clear reason, it's worth finding out why.