Definition of Cardiac Arrhythmia

Introduction

Cardiac arrhythmia refers to an irregular heartbeat, meaning the heart may beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an abnormal rhythm. Normally, the heart beats in a coordinated way due to electrical signals that control contractions. When these signals become disrupted, an arrhythmia can occur.

Types of Arrhythmias

  1. Tachycardia – A heartbeat faster than normal (>100 bpm in adults).
    • Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) – Originates in the upper heart chambers.
    • Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – Originates in the lower heart chambers.
  2. Bradycardia – A heartbeat slower than normal (<60 bpm in adults).
    • Sinus bradycardia – Often seen in well-trained athletes or during sleep.
    • Heart block – A delay or complete block of electrical signal transmission.
  3. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – An irregular and rapid heartbeat that increases stroke risk.
  4. Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib) – A life-threatening condition where the heart quivers instead of beating.
  5. Premature Contractions – Extra heartbeats that disrupt normal rhythm.

Causes of Arrhythmia

  • Heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, heart failure)
  • Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, magnesium, calcium)
  • High blood pressure
  • Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism)
  • Use of stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, drugs)
  • Stress and anxiety

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Palpitations (feeling of skipped or extra beats)
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain

When to Seek Medical Help?

If you experience frequent irregular heartbeats, fainting, severe dizziness, or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Arrhythmias vary in severity. Some are harmless, while others require medical intervention. If you have symptoms, consult a cardiologist for an 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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