What is a rapid heart beat?
A rapid or fast heartbeat is when your heart is beating faster than normal. A normal heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute. Tachycardia is considered a heart rate of greater than 100 beats per minute. If you are exercising, or performing any kind of activity, your heart will normally beat faster. This allows your heart to pump blood through out your body, to provide oxygen to the tissues. If you are experiencing fear, anxiety or stress, your heart rate will increase. People who can feel their heartbeat, or flutter, may be experiencing palpitations. This may be due to stress, anxiety, medications, or it may be a sign of a serious heart condition. If you experience palpitations, you should report this to your healthcare provider. There are many other causes of a rapid heartbeat, including: • Infection in the lung, such as pneumonia • Infection in the blood, which may cause a fever • Anemia • Low blood pressure • Dehydration • Drinking alcohol and caffeine • Over the counter decongesta
