Understanding Heart Rhythm

Introduction

Heart rhythm refers to the pattern and speed of electrical impulses that regulate your heartbeat. A normal heart rhythm ensures that the heart pumps blood effectively to the body.

Normal Heart Rhythm (Sinus Rhythm)

  • The heart typically beats 60-100 times per minute at rest.
  • The electrical impulse originates in the sinoatrial (SA) node , the body's natural pacemaker.
  • The impulse travels through the heart's electrical system, ensuring a coordinated contraction.

Abnormal Heart Rhythms (Arrhythmias)

When the heart's rhythm is too fast, too slow, or irregular, it is called an arrhythmia. Some common types include:

  1. Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate) – Below 60 beats per minute. Can cause dizziness, fatigue, and fainting.
  2. Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rate) – Over 100 beats per minute. Can be due to stress, fever, or heart disease.
  3. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – An irregular and often rapid heartbeat, increasing the risk of stroke.
  4. Ventricular Tachycardia – A dangerous, fast rhythm from the ventricles, which may lead to cardiac arrest.

Causes of Arrhythmias

  • Heart disease or previous heart attack
  • High blood pressure
  • Imbalances in electrolytes (e.g., potassium, magnesium)
  • Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or drug use
  • Stress or anxiety
  • Thyroid disorders

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Diagnosis: ECG (electrocardiogram), Holter monitor, stress test
  • Treatment: Lifestyle changes, medications (e.g., beta-blockers), pacemakers, or procedures such as catheter ablation .

Takeaway

Heart rhythm is essential for normal heart function. If you experience palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, consult your doctor.

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 Rhythm Disorders

  1. https://www.escardio.org/
  2. https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources
  3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
  4. https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources/2009-guidelines-diagnosis-and-management-syncope
  5. https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf

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