Which of the following can be a cause of sinus tachycardia?

Prepare for the Advanced Dysrhythmias Exam. Study with practice questions and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding of complex arrhythmias. Boost your confidence and get exam-ready!

Sinus tachycardia is characterized by an increased heart rate originating from the sinoatrial node, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute. Various physiological and pathological conditions can lead to this response, and one common cause is anemia.

In anemia, there is a reduction in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin concentration, leading to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. As a compensatory mechanism, the heart increases its rate to enhance circulation and deliver more oxygen to the tissues. Thus, in a patient with anemia, sinus tachycardia occurs as the body attempts to meet its oxygen demands despite lower hemoglobin levels.

While hypoglycemia can cause tachycardia as a response to low blood sugar levels, the more classic and direct relationship in the context of sinus tachycardia is observed with anemia. Additionally, decreased heart rate would not contribute to sinus tachycardia, as it refers to a slower heart rhythm. Lead poisoning can have various cardiac effects, but it is not a primary cause of isolated sinus tachycardia. Therefore, anemia is the most straightforward and recognized cause in the context of this question.

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