Understanding Abnormal EKG Rhythms

Introduction

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a diagnostic tool that records the electrical activity of the heart. Abnormal EKG rhythms can indicate various cardiac conditions, ranging from benign to potentially life-threatening disorders.

Common Types of Abnormal EKG Rhythms

1. Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate)

  • Sinus Bradycardia: A normal but slow heart rate (< 60 bpm); can be normal in athletes or result from medications.
  • Heart Block (AV Block): A delay or disruption in electrical conduction from the atria to the ventricles. Types:
    • First-degree AV block (mild delay)
    • Second-degree AV block (intermittent failure of conduction)
    • Third-degree AV block (complete blockage, requiring a pacemaker)

2. Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rate)

  • Sinus Tachycardia: A normal but fast heart rate (>100 bpm), often due to stress, fever, dehydration, or other non-cardiac causes.
  • Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): A rapid heart rhythm originating above the ventricles, often caused by extra electrical pathways.
  • Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): An irregular and chaotic atrial rhythm, increasing stroke risk and requiring medical management.
  • Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A dangerous condition where the ventricles beat rapidly, which may lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib): A life-threatening arrhythmia where the heart quivers instead of contracting properly, requiring immediate defibrillation.

Causes of Abnormal Rhythms

  • Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart failure)
  • Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, calcium, magnesium levels)
  • Medications or stimulants (e.g., caffeine, certain drugs)
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Structural abnormalities (heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy)
  • Genetic factors (inherited arrhythmias)

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Diagnosis: Identified via EKG readings, Holter monitoring, stress testing, or electrophysiological studies.
  • Treatment Options:
    • Medications (beta-blockers, anti-arrhythmics, anticoagulants for AFib)
    • Lifestyle changes (avoiding stimulants, managing stress)
    • Electrical interventions (pacemakers, defibrillators, ablation procedures)
    • Emergency care (defibrillation for VFib)

Conclusion

Understanding abnormal EKG rhythms is essential for the early detection and treatment of serious heart conditions. If you experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or chest pain, seek medical evaluation.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias

  1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
  2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
  3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
  4. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiac Arrhythmias

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
  2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
  3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
  5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84

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