Irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias, can cause the heart to beat too quickly, too slowly, or erratically. These can be caused by hereditary traits, drugs, electrolyte imbalances, tension, and pre-existing heart issues. Arrhythmias can be split into two categories: those above the ventricles (supraventricular) and those below (ventricular). Supraventricular arrhythmias are atrial fibrillation (the most common, with an erratic, fast heartbeat), atrial flutter (similar to fibrillation, but with a more regular heartbeat), and supraventricular tachycardia (a rapid heartbeat caused by a circular electrical signal). Ventricular arrhythmias are ventricular tachycardia (a rapid heartbeat from the ventricles), ventricular fibrillation (a dangerous arrhythmia with chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles), and premature ventricular contractions (extra heartbeats before the normal beat). Symptoms of arrhythmias can include faintness, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Treatment choices depend on the type and severity of the arrhythmia and can include lifestyle changes, drugs, or procedures such as ablation or implantation of a pacemaker.
- Atrial fibrillation
- Atrial flutter
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Ventricular fibrillation
- Premature atrial contractions (PACs)
- Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
- Torsade de pointes
- Sinus bradycardia
- Sinus tachycardia
- Long QT syndrome
- Wolf-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome
- Atrioventricular (AV) block
- Junctional rhythm
- Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT)
- Atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT)
- Atrial standstill
- Ventricular standstill
- Atrial tachycardia
- Atrial bigeminy
- Atrial trigeminy
- Ventricular bigeminy
- Ventricular trigeminy
- Palpitations
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Weakness or fatigue
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Sweating
- Lightheadedness
- Fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest
The identification of an arrhythmia is typically established through a mixture of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Medical history should encompass queries about signs, risk factors, family history, and any drugs or supplements the patient is consuming. During a physical examination, a doctor may utilize a stethoscope to listen to the patient's heart and examine their pulse. Diagnostic tests that may be utilized to diagnose arrhythmias include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, Holter monitor, event monitor, or electrophysiological study. An ECG is a test that registers the electrical activity of the heart and can assist in detecting abnormal heart rhythms. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound imaging test that can aid in spotting structural abnormalities of the heart. A Holter monitor is a device that records the heart's electrical activity for 24 hours or more. An event monitor is a device that records the heart's electrical activity when the patient experiences symptoms. An electrophysiological study is an invasive procedure that utilizes catheters to measure the electrical activity of the heart and can be utilized to diagnose and treat arrhythmias.
Irregular heartbeats are caused by irregular electrical activity in the heart. A range of things may be the cause, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, imbalances in electrolytes, congenital heart defects, tension, overuse of alcohol and certain medications. In some cases, the source of the arrhythmia is a mystery.
The treatment for an arrhythmia depends upon the type, source, and intensity of the condition. Treatment alternatives may include drugs, lifestyle modifications, medical operations, or a mix of these. Drugs: Drugs are employed to control the heart rate or rhythm, lessen symptoms, and avert complications. Examples include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic medications. Lifestyle modifications: Lifestyle modifications, like avoiding caffeine and alcohol, might help reduce the danger of arrhythmias and improve symptoms. Medical operations: Medical procedures, such as cardiac ablation and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, may be utilized to treat arrhythmias. Surgery: Surgery may be used to treat certain types of arrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation.
- Observe your symptoms: Monitor any changes or new symptoms, such as chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
- Follow your doctor’s directions: Take medications as recommended and adhere to guidelines for lifestyle changes.
- Consume a nutritious diet: Eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is beneficial for overall health, including heart health.
- Exercise frequently: Regular physical activity can help keep your heart healthy and reduce symptoms of arrhythmia.
- Refrain from alcohol and tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco can raise your risk of arrhythmia and other heart problems.
- Minimize stress: Stress can worsen arrhythmia symptoms, so finding methods to reduce stress is essential.
- Monitor your caffeine intake: Too much caffeine can trigger arrhythmia, so it’s important to pay attention to your consumption.
- Get adequate sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for overall health and can help reduce symptoms of arrhythmia.
- Wear a medical alert bracelet: If you have a serious arrhythmia, it’s important to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace to alert medical personnel in case of an emergency.
- Speak to your doctor: If you’re experiencing symptoms or have any questions or concerns about your arrhythmia, talk to your doctor.