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.
Erratic Heartbeat Causes
Introduction
An erratic heartbeat, also known as an arrhythmia, refers to irregular heart rhythms that can be too fast, too slow, or erratic. It can be a harmless condition or a sign of serious heart problems.
Common Causes of Erratic Heartbeat
1. Heart Conditions
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib): The most common type of irregular heartbeat, often associated with stroke risk.
- Bradycardia: A slow heart rate, which may be due to aging or an electrical issue in the heart.
- Tachycardia: A fast heart rate, which can be caused by stress, exercise, or health conditions.
- Heart failure: Weak heart muscles can lead to abnormal rhythms.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): Blocked heart arteries affect electrical impulses in the heart.
2. Imbalance of Electrolytes
- Essential minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium help regulate heart rhythms. Low or high levels can lead to arrhythmias.
3. Medications and Stimulants
- Certain medications: Some blood pressure medications, decongestants, or antidepressants can affect heart rhythm.
- Caffeine and alcohol: Overuse can trigger irregular heartbeats.
- Nicotine and drugs: Stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines can provoke dangerous arrhythmias.
4. Hormonal Imbalances and Diseases
- Thyroid disorders: An overactive or underactive thyroid can impact heart rate.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels and diabetes-related complications can affect the heart’s conduction system.
5. Lifestyle Factors
- Stress and anxiety: Emotional distress can contribute to palpitations.
- Lack of sleep: Sleep apnea and chronic sleep deprivation can trigger arrhythmias.
- Excessive physical exertion: Overtraining or sudden intense physical activity can stress the heart.
6. Aging and Genetic Factors
- As people age, the risk of arrhythmias increases.
- Some arrhythmias run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical help if you experience: - Frequent palpitations or fluttering in the chest - Shortness of breath - Dizziness or fainting - Chest pain - Sudden fatigue
Conclusion
An erratic heartbeat can have many causes, some harmless and others needing urgent care. Lifestyle adjustments, proper hydration, and medical management can help.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmia
- 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://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2023-acc-aha-accp-hrs-guideline-for-the-diagnosis-and-management-of-atrial-fibrillation
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation
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/
3. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Ventricular Arrhythmias
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405500X22010945
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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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