Abnormal Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmia)

Introduction

An abnormal heart rhythm, also known as arrhythmia , is a condition where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly. The heart has an electrical system that controls its rhythm. When this system is disrupted, arrhythmias can occur.

Types of Arrhythmias

1. Tachycardia – A fast heart rate (above 100 beats per minute).
   • Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) – Rapid rhythm originating above the ventricles.
   • Ventricular Tachycardia – Abnormal fast rhythm from the ventricles, which can be life-threatening.
2. Bradycardia – A slow heart rate (below 60 beats per minute).
   • Sinus Bradycardia – Normal in some athletes but may indicate a problem in others.
   • Heart Block – A delay in electrical signals between the heart’s chambers.
3. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – A common irregular rhythm that increases stroke risk.
4. Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib) – A chaotic rhythm that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.

Symptoms of Arrhythmias

• Palpitations (fluttering in the chest)
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting or near-fainting spells
• Chest pain (in severe cases)

Causes and Risk Factors

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or smoking
• Stress and anxiety

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal rhythms.
• Holter monitor for continuous monitoring.
• Medications such as beta-blockers or antiarrhythmic drugs.
• Catheter ablation to remove abnormal electrical pathways.
• Pacemaker for slow heart rhythms.

Prevention

• Eat a heart-healthy diet (low in salt and fats).
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, and stress.
• Regular medical check-ups to monitor heart health.

When to Seek Medical Help

• If you experience severe chest pain or fainting,
• If your heartbeat feels extremely irregular or fast,
• If you are at high risk of heart disease.

Early diagnosis and management are key to preventing complications related to arrhythmias.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines

1. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
2. https://www.heart.org/
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
4. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
5. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/39/4043/7238227
5. https://www.escardio.org/