What term describes an increased heart rate above normal levels?

Tachycardia is defined as an elevated heart rate that exceeds the normal resting rate, which is typically over 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can arise due to various factors, including exercise, anxiety, fever, or underlying medical conditions. It is important in a clinical context as it can signal underlying health issues, and careful monitoring may be necessary to manage any complications associated with sustained increased heart rates.

In contrast, bradycardia refers to a slower-than-normal heart rate, dysrhythmia describes any irregular heartbeat, and arrhythmia is a broader term that encompasses all types of irregular heart rhythms, including both tachycardia and bradycardia. Understanding these terms is crucial for health professionals and is particularly significant in health information management, as accurate documentation and interpretation of heart rate data are essential for patient care and treatment planning.