Differential Diagnosis for Tachycardia
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Sinus Tachycardia: This is the most common cause of tachycardia, often due to physiological responses such as anxiety, stress, fever, or physical exertion. It's characterized by a rapid heart rate that originates from the sinoatrial node.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Atrial Fibrillation: A common arrhythmia characterized by rapid and irregular heart rhythms. It can be due to various factors including hypertension, heart disease, or thyroid disorders.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Includes several types of tachycardia that originate above the ventricles, such as atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) or atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT).
- Ventricular Tachycardia: A potentially life-threatening arrhythmia originating from the ventricles, often associated with heart disease or electrolyte imbalances.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cardiac Tamponade: Although less common, cardiac tamponade can present with tachycardia and is a medical emergency. It involves fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac that can compress the heart and impede its function.
- Pulmonary Embolism: Tachycardia can be a presenting symptom of pulmonary embolism, a condition where a blood clot blocks an artery in the lung, which is potentially life-threatening and requires immediate attention.
- Hypovolemic Shock: Severe blood or fluid loss can lead to tachycardia as the body attempts to compensate for the decreased volume. Early recognition is crucial for effective management.
Rare Diagnoses
- Thyroid Storm: A life-threatening complication of untreated or undertreated hyperthyroidism, presenting with severe tachycardia among other symptoms.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodes of severe tachycardia, hypertension, and other symptoms due to excessive catecholamine release.
- Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC): A rare heart condition where the muscle in the right ventricle is replaced by fat and scar tissue, potentially leading to life-threatening arrhythmias, including tachycardia.