Sinus tachycardia - Sinus nodal arrhythmias

Sinus tachycardia

Definition

Sinus rate above 100 bpm.

Aetiology/pathophysiology

Sinus tachycardia is a physiological response to maintain tissue perfusion and oxygenation. Causes include exercise, fever, anaemia, hypovolaemia, hypoxia, heart failure, hyperthyroidism, pulmonary embolism, drugs and emotion.

Clinical features

Palpitations with an associated rapid, regular pulse rate. Features of any underlying cause often predominate.

Investigations

The ECG confirms sinus rhythm and demonstrates the tachycardia. Appropriate investigations of the underlying cause may be required.

Management

Treatment is aimed at the underlying cause. Î²-blockers can slow the rate, but this is rarely of clinical benefit.