About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Abnormal ECG and Arrhythmia
Introduction
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It helps detect abnormalities in heart rhythm, known as arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can be harmless, but some may indicate serious underlying conditions that require medical attention.
What is an Arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratic. Some arrhythmias may cause noticeable symptoms, while others may be detected only through an ECG.
Types of Arrhythmias
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) - The most common type, causing an irregular and often rapid heart rate.
- Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) - A fast, abnormal heart rhythm that originates in the lower chambers (ventricles).
- Bradycardia - A slower-than-normal heart rate, which may cause dizziness or fatigue.
- Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) - Extra heartbeats that originate in the ventricles, often experienced as palpitations.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) - A rapid heartbeat arising from the upper chambers (atria).
Causes of Abnormal ECG and Arrhythmia
- Coronary artery disease
- High blood pressure
- Heart valve disease
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., potassium, sodium, calcium)
- Thyroid disorders
- Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or stress
- Medications or stimulant use
Symptoms to Watch For
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness or fatigue
Diagnosis and Treatment
A cardiologist will interpret your ECG and might recommend additional tests such as: - Holter monitor (24-hour ECG recording) - Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) - Electrophysiology study (EPS)
Treatment Options
- Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing caffeine, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy diet.
- Medications: Beta-blockers, antiarrhythmic drugs, or anticoagulants if necessary.
- Ablation Therapy: A procedure that destroys problematic heart tissue causing the arrhythmia.
- Pacemakers and ICDs (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators): Used for serious arrhythmias to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
Conclusion
If your ECG shows an abnormal heart rhythm, consult a cardiologist for further evaluation. Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others may require treatment to prevent complications like stroke or heart failure.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20802247/
3. ESC Guidelines for Ventricular Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2022/09/02/14/23/2022-ESC-Guidelines-for-VAs-ESC-2022
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320108/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
Best practices from USA, EU and Japan
Our answers to your questions are based on the clinical recommendations of countries with the most developed healthcare systems in the field of cardiology in the USA, the EU and Japan.
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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.