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Last updated: September 24, 2025View editorial policy

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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.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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