Classification of Arrhythmias

Introduction

Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that result from disturbances in the electrical conduction system of the heart. They can be harmless or life-threatening, depending on their type and severity.

Main Categories of Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias are generally classified based on their origin and effect on heart rate. These include:

1. By Origin

• Supraventricular arrhythmias (arise above the ventricles)
• Ventricular arrhythmias (originate within the ventricles)

2. By Heart Rate Effect

• Bradyarrhythmias (slow heart rate, <60 beats per minute)
• Tachyarrhythmias (fast heart rate, >100 beats per minute)

Types of Arrhythmias

Supraventricular Arrhythmias:

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib) – Irregular, rapid beats of the atria, increasing stroke risk.
• Atrial flutter – More organized but still rapid atrial beats.
• Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) – Sudden rapid heart rates caused by abnormal electrical circuits.

Ventricular Arrhythmias:

• Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – Life-threatening rapid beats from the ventricles.
• Ventricular fibrillation (VFib) – A medical emergency where ventricles quiver instead of pumping blood.

Bradyarrhythmias:

• Sinus bradycardia – Slow but regular heart rhythm.
• Heart block – Delay or complete block in electrical conduction from atria to ventricles.

Importance of Diagnosis and Treatment

Arrhythmias may cause symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or even cardiac arrest. Diagnosis involves electrocardiograms (ECG), Holter monitors, and electrophysiological studies. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications, pacemakers, or ablation therapies.

Conclusion

Understanding arrhythmias and their classification helps in identifying the appropriate treatment. Always consult your doctor if you experience abnormal heart rhythms.

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

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/