Which of the following would be the term used to describe the condition of an unusually fast heart rate?
A Bradycardic.
B Hypercardic.
C Hypocardic.
D Tachycardic.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Tachycardic.
Tachycardia is the medical term used to describe an unusually fast heart rate. Specifically, it refers to a heart rate that exceeds the normal range, generally defined as more than 100 beats per minute (bpm) for adults at rest. The term “tachycardic” is derived from the Greek words “tachys,” meaning fast, and “kardia,” meaning heart.
There are different types of tachycardia depending on the origin of the abnormal heart rhythm. For example, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) originates above the heart’s ventricles, while ventricular tachycardia (VT) starts in the lower chambers of the heart. Both types lead to a rapid heart rate, but the causes and potential severity can differ.
Tachycardia can be caused by a wide range of factors, including emotional stress, fever, anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications. It can also be a symptom of underlying conditions like heart disease, hyperthyroidism, or respiratory issues. In some cases, tachycardia may be a normal physiological response to exercise or excitement, but if it occurs at rest or is sustained over a long period, it may require medical evaluation.
If left untreated, persistent tachycardia can lead to complications such as reduced cardiac output, which could affect the delivery of oxygen to the body’s tissues. In severe cases, it may increase the risk of heart failure, stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest. Diagnosis often involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine the exact nature of the arrhythmia and the best course of treatment.