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 Pulse Rhythm
Introduction
An abnormal pulse rhythm, also known as an arrhythmia, is a condition where the heartbeat is irregular—too fast, too slow, or erratic. It can be harmless or indicate an underlying heart condition that requires medical attention.
What is a Normal Heart Rhythm?
A normal heart rhythm is called sinus rhythm. The heart typically beats at a rate of 60-100 beats per minute in a regular pattern. Irregularities may suggest a problem with the heart's electrical conduction system.
Types of Abnormal Pulse Rhythms
- Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rate): Heart rate above 100 beats per minute.
- Examples: Atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), ventricular tachycardia.
- Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): Heart rate below 60 beats per minute.
- Common causes: Sinus node dysfunction, heart block.
- Irregular Rhythm (Skipped or Extra Beats):
- Example: Premature atrial contractions (PACs) or premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).
Causes of Abnormal Pulse Rhythm
- Heart conditions: Coronary artery disease, heart failure, valve disorders.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Potassium, calcium, or magnesium abnormalities.
- Certain medications: Beta blockers, antiarrhythmic drugs, or stimulants.
- Other factors: Stress, excessive caffeine, alcohol, thyroid diseases.
Symptoms
- Palpitations (awareness of heartbeat)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Fatigue
Diagnosis
Doctors use tests such as: - Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records heart electrical activity. - Holter monitoring: 24-hour ECG monitoring. - Echocardiogram: Checks heart structure. - Blood tests: Evaluates electrolyte levels and thyroid function.
Treatment Options
- Lifestyle changes: Avoid stimulants, manage stress, stay hydrated.
- Medications: Beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics, anticoagulants (for certain conditions like atrial fibrillation).
- Medical procedures:
- Pacemaker (for bradycardia)
- Catheter ablation (destroys abnormal heart tissue)
- Defibrillators (for life-threatening arrhythmias)
Conclusion
An abnormal pulse rhythm can range from benign to life-threatening. If you experience symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.
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/
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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!
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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.