The term "tachycardia" is used to describe what condition?

Tachycardia refers to a condition where the heart rate is abnormally high, typically defined as a resting heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can be caused by various factors, including stress, fever, medications, or underlying heart conditions. Recognizing tachycardia is important in clinical settings as it can indicate potential health issues requiring further evaluation and management.

Understanding that a slow heart rate is termed bradycardia, while a normal heart rate falls within a range of about 60 to 100 beats per minute, helps clarify the distinction. Conversely, an irregular heart rate could refer to arrhythmias, where the rhythm of the heart beats is disrupted. Thus, tachycardia specifically encompasses those instances where the heart rate is fast and requires attention or intervention.