Understanding Heart Irregularity (Arrhythmia)

Introduction

Heart irregularity, also known as arrhythmia , refers to an abnormal heart rhythm. This can mean your heartbeat is too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or has an irregular pattern.

Types of Arrhythmias

  1. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – A common type of irregular, rapid heartbeat.
  2. Ventricular Tachycardia – A fast heart rate starting in the lower chambers.
  3. Bradycardia – Slow heart rate, below 60 beats per minute.
  4. Premature Heartbeats – Extra beats, either from the atria or ventricles.

Causes of Heart Irregularity

  • Heart diseases (e.g., coronary artery disease, heart failure)
  • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., potassium, magnesium)
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Caffeine, alcohol, and smoking
  • Certain medications
  • Thyroid disorders

Symptoms to Watch For

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

Diagnosing Arrhythmia

Doctors use tests like: - Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Records heart rhythm. - Holter monitor – A portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours. - Echocardiogram – Uses ultrasound to check heart function. - Electrophysiology study – Assesses heart electrical activity.

Treatment Options

  • Lifestyle Changes – Reducing stress, avoiding caffeine, and stopping smoking.
  • Medications – Beta-blockers, antiarrhythmic drugs, or anticoagulants (if AFib is present).
  • Medical Procedures :
    • Cardioversion – Electrical shock to restore rhythm.
    • Ablation Therapy – Destroying misfiring heart cells.
    • Pacemaker or ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) – Devices to regulate heart rhythm.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience frequent palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain.

Conclusion

Heart irregularities can be mild or life-threatening, so regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are essential in managing the condition.

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 Atrial Fibrillation

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
  2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
  3. https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
  4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20802247/

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