What does tachycardia indicate?

Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate that exceeds 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can be a physiological response to various factors such as stress, anxiety, fever, or physical exertion, as well as an indicator of underlying health issues such as heart disease or arrhythmia. Monitoring heart rate is critical in clinical practice, as prolonged tachycardia can lead to decreased cardiac output and other adverse effects. Understanding the significance of a heart rate above 100 beats per minute helps healthcare providers assess a patient's cardiovascular status and make appropriate decisions for further evaluation and management.