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.
Causes of Heart Irregularities
Introduction
Heart irregularities, also known as arrhythmias, are disturbances in the normal rhythm of the heart. These can range from harmless to life-threatening conditions. Understanding their causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Types of Heart Irregularities
- Bradycardia (Slow Heartbeat) – When the heart beats too slowly (less than 60 beats per minute).
- Tachycardia (Fast Heartbeat) – When the heart beats too fast (more than 100 beats per minute).
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – An irregular, often rapid heart rhythm that can lead to stroke.
- Ventricular Arrhythmias – Dangerous irregular rhythms from the lower heart chambers, sometimes leading to cardiac arrest.
- Premature Beats – Extra beats that interrupt the normal heart rhythm.
Causes of Heart Irregularities
1. Heart-Related Causes
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – Narrowing of heart arteries reduces oxygen supply to the heart.
- Heart Valve Disorders – Malfunctions in the heart valves affect blood flow.
- Cardiomyopathy – Diseases that alter the heart muscle structure and function.
- Heart Failure – Weakening of the heart muscle, causing irregular rhythms.
- Congenital Heart Defects – Structural abnormalities present at birth.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances
- Imbalances in potassium, calcium, and magnesium disrupt electrical signals in the heart.
3. High Blood Pressure
- Increased pressure puts strain on the heart and leads to arrhythmias.
4. Hormonal Disorders
- Conditions like thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism) affect heart rate and rhythm.
5. Lifestyle and External Factors
- Excessive Caffeine or Alcohol – Stimulants can trigger irregular beats.
- Stress & Anxiety – Release of stress hormones affects heartbeat.
- Medications – Some drugs, such as decongestants or stimulants, can cause arrhythmias.
- Smoking & Drug Use – Nicotine and recreational drugs alter heart function.
6. Aging and Genetics
- Aging weakens heart tissue, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.
- Genetic predisposition plays a role in certain heart rhythm disorders.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience: - Persistent palpitations - Dizziness or fainting - Shortness of breath - Chest pain
Conclusion
Heart irregularities have multiple causes, and identifying them is key to effective treatment. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and managing risk factors 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 Cardiac Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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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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Best practices from USA, EU and Japan
Our answers to your questions are based on the clinical recommendations of countries with the most developed healthcare systems in the field of cardiology in the USA, the EU and Japan.
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On a daily basis, we monitor for you all new scientific research publications in leading scientific journals on medical issues of interest to you.
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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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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.