A rapid or fast heartbeat is when your heart is beating faster than normal. A normal heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute. Tachycardia is considered a heart rate of greater than 100 beats per minute. If you are exercising, or performing any kind of activity, your heart will normally beat faster. This allows your heart to pump blood through out your body, to provide oxygen to the tissues. If you are experiencing fear, anxiety or stress, your heart rate will increase.

People who can feel their heartbeat, or flutter, may be experiencing palpitations. This may be due to stress, anxiety, medications, or it may be a sign of a serious heart condition.  If you experience palpitations, you should report this to your healthcare provider.

There are many other causes of a rapid heartbeat, including:
-- Infection in the lung, such as Pneumonia
-- Infection in the blood, which may cause a fever
-- Anemia
-- Low blood pressure
-- Dehydration
-- Drinking alcohol and caffeine
-- Over the counter decongestants, and appetite suppressants
-- Thyroid disorders
-- Heart disorders, including irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)

What are some symptoms to look for?
-- You may have no symptoms of your rapid heartbeat, or you may feel palpitations.
-- You may feel anxious, or "stressed out".
-- You may feel your heart pounding in your chest or throat, which may cause pain or mild discomfort. You may also feel your heart "fluttering", and it may seem as if it is skipping a beat.
-- If you have anemia, you may be overly tired, or very weak. It may be hard for you to do any kind of your normal activities.
-- Some people may chest pain in addition to their palpitations, which may range from excruciating, to a mild discomfort. 
-- If your rapid heartbeat is due to lung problems, you may experience shortness of breath, either at rest or while performing any type of activity. This may include walking to the door, or climbing stairs.