Abnormal Heart Rate

Introduction

The heart rate, or pulse, refers to the number of times the heart beats per minute. A normal resting heart rate for adults typically falls between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). However, an abnormal heart rate can be either too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia), which may indicate underlying health issues.

Types of Abnormal Heart Rate

1. Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rate)

• Resting heart rate above 100 bpm.
• Causes may include:
  • Stress, anxiety, or panic attacks
  • Fever and infections
  • Dehydration or electrolyte imbalances
  • Heart disease (e.g., atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia)
  • Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism)
  • Stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, certain medications)
  • Anemia

2. Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate)

• Resting heart rate below 60 bpm (unless in highly trained athletes).
• Possible causes:
  • Aging-related heart conduction issues
  • Heart block (electrical signal disruptions)
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Medication side effects (e.g., beta-blockers)
  • Sleep apnea
  • Electrolyte imbalances

Symptoms of Abnormal Heart Rate

• Palpitations (heart racing, fluttering)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Fatigue
• Fainting or near-fainting episodes

When to See a Doctor?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience: - Chest pain - Severe shortness of breath - Loss of consciousness - A very high or very low heart rate with symptoms

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic Tests

Doctors may use tests such as: - Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) – records the heart’s electrical activity. - Holter Monitor – a 24-hour portable ECG. - Echocardiogram – ultrasound imaging of the heart. - Blood tests – check for electrolyte imbalances, thyroid function, anemia.

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle Changes: Reduce stress, maintain hydration, avoid excessive stimulants.
• Medications: Beta-blockers or antiarrhythmics for tachycardia; pacemakers for severe bradycardia.
• Medical Procedures: Catheter ablation for arrhythmias; surgery for structural problems.

Conclusion

An abnormal heart rate isn't always dangerous, but it can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you notice persistent symptoms, consult a doctor to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

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