Heart palpitations may be a common occurrence, but they do not necessarily have to be. One such palpitation, tachycardia, causes the heart to beat too quickly, leading to a faster rate of blood circulation in the body.

While it may seem like a common occurrence that can be ignored or overlooked, tachycardia can cause health risks that should not be ignored. In this article, we will take a closer look at the four health risks associated with tachycardia that you don’t want to ignore.

Risk 1: Blood Clots

When the heart beats too quickly, it can lead to a higher risk of blood clots. The blood in the body moves so quickly that it does not have enough time to flow through the body at a normal pace.

When the blood does not flow correctly, it can start to clot, forming clumps of blood cells. These clots prevent the normal flow of blood, which can lead to a stroke or heart attacks.

Risk 2: Heart Failure

Another health risk associated with tachycardia is heart failure. When the heart beats too quickly, it can lead to a decrease in the ability of the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.

Due to this, the heart may start to weaken to a point where it can no longer pump the blood easily, leading to heart failure. Those who suffer from tachycardia have a higher risk of heart failure than those who do not suffer from the condition.

Risk 3: Stroke

Tachycardia can lead to an increase in the risk of strokes. As mentioned earlier, tachycardia can lead to blood clots. If a blood clot travels to the brain, it can lead to a blockage in the blood flow to the brain or a stroke.

If one has a high risk of tachycardia, they should take necessary measures to reduce the risk of stroke, such as taking medication prescribed by a doctor or leading a healthier lifestyle.

Risk 4: Brain Damage or Injury

Lastly, tachycardia can lead to brain damage or injury. When the brain is deprived of oxygen due to decreased blood flow, it starts to lose its functionality, leading to damage or injury.

This is particularly dangerous since the brain controls all the functions in the body, and damage to it can lead to severe and irreparable damage.

How to Reduce the Risks of Tachycardia

Individuals who suffer from tachycardia should take the necessary steps to reduce the risks associated with it. Below are a few ways they can do so:.

1. Anti-Arrhythmic Medication

Anti-arrhythmic medication is a type of medication that helps regulate the heartbeat. It can help reduce the occurrence of tachycardia, and, in some cases, may be able to prevent it from happening altogether.

Those who suffer from tachycardia can be prescribed anti-arrhythmic medication by their doctor after they examine their medical records and see if it suits them.

2. Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be required to reduce the risks associated with tachycardia. Surgery may be needed to correct the underlying issue of tachycardia, such as problems with the heart’s electrical system.

In others, surgery may be required to install a pacemaker or defibrillator that regulates and monitors the heart. Surgery should only be considered when all other options have been exhausted.

3. Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes can go a long way in reducing the risks associated with tachycardia.

Making changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthier diet, reducing caffeine, and managing stress can all help reduce the frequency of tachycardia and the risks associated with it.

4. Treatment of Underlying Conditions

In many cases, tachycardia is a symptom of an underlying condition such as high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, or heart disease. Treating these conditions may help reduce the frequency of tachycardia and the associated risks.

Those who suffer from an underlying condition should prioritize receiving treatment for it.

Conclusion

Tachycardia may seem like a common and harmless occurrence, but it can lead to severe health risks.

Blood clots, heart failure, stroke, and brain damage or injury are all associated with tachycardia, and individuals who suffer from it should take necessary precautions. Through anti-arrhythmic medication, surgery, lifestyle changes, and the treatment of underlying conditions, individuals suffering from tachycardia can reduce these risks and lead a healthier life.