What heart rate defines tachycardia?

Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate that exceeds the normal resting rate. A resting heart rate is typically considered to be between 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm) for adults. When the heart rate rises above 100 bpm, it indicates an increase in the heart's workload and can be a sign of stress, anxiety, anemia, fever, or a response to various physiological demands.

Understanding the definition of tachycardia is crucial because it helps health professionals identify potential underlying conditions that may require further investigation or intervention. An elevated heart rate can have significant implications for a patient’s cardiovascular health and may necessitate monitoring and management to prevent complications such as arrhythmias or heart failure.