A safe fast heart rate is generally considered to be below 100 beats per minute (bpm) at rest. A heart rate above 100 bpm is often too fast for most people.
Understanding Tachycardia
- Tachycardia is the medical term for a fast heart rate. According to the British Heart Foundation, a resting heart rate exceeding 100 bpm could indicate underlying health issues.
What Causes a Fast Heart Rate?
A fast heart rate may not always be a cause for concern (such as during exercise), however, if it's high at rest it's important to understand potential reasons why. Here are some health conditions that can contribute to a fast heart rate, as mentioned by the British Heart Foundation:
- Infection: Infections can raise your heart rate as your body fights the illness.
- Anaemia: This condition involves a lack of red blood cells, which carry oxygen, and may cause your heart to pump faster to compensate.
- Overactive Thyroid: An overactive thyroid, where your thyroid gland produces too many hormones, can cause an increased heart rate.
Monitoring Your Heart Rate
It’s important to pay attention to your heart rate. Here's what you should consider:
- Resting Heart Rate: A healthy resting heart rate is typically between 60 and 100 bpm.
- When to See a Doctor: If your resting heart rate is consistently above 100 bpm, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath, you should seek medical advice.
Key Takeaways
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Safe Resting Heart Rate | Generally, below 100 bpm. |
| Tachycardia | A heart rate above 100 bpm at rest, which may indicate a health problem. |
| Causes | Infections, anemia, and an overactive thyroid are a few potential causes of tachycardia. |
| Monitoring | If your resting heart rate is consistently high or you have concerns, contact a healthcare professional. |
