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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.
Irregular Heartbeat: Causes and Explanations
Introduction
An irregular heartbeat, also known as an arrhythmia, occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or unevenly. While some irregular heartbeats are harmless, others can indicate serious underlying conditions that might require medical intervention.
Causes of Irregular Heartbeat
1. Heart-Related Causes
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to arrhythmias.
- Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): Damaged heart tissue can disrupt normal electrical signals.
- Heart Failure: A weakened heart can’t pump effectively, leading to rhythm disturbances.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Structural issues in the heart from birth can cause irregular electrical activity.
- Cardiomyopathy: Disease of the heart muscle affects its ability to conduct electrical impulses properly.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances
Electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium play a critical role in heart conduction. An imbalance can lead to irregular heart rhythms.
3. Hormonal Disorders
- Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid): Increased thyroid hormone can overstimulate the heart.
- Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid): A slow thyroid can weaken electrical signals in the heart.
4. Stimulants and Substances
- Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine can trigger arrhythmias.
- Certain drugs, including some used for asthma and cold medications, may provoke irregular rhythms.
5. Stress and Anxiety
High levels of stress and chronic anxiety can lead to an increased release of adrenaline, which can cause palpitations or abnormal rhythms.
6. Sleep Disorders
Conditions like obstructive sleep apnea can put strain on the heart and lead to arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation.
7. Aging
As we grow older, natural changes in the heart’s electrical system can lead to rhythm disturbances.
8. Genetics
Some people inherit certain arrhythmic disorders that increase the likelihood of irregular heart rhythms.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience: - Persistent palpitations or skipped beats - Dizziness or fainting - Shortness of breath - Chest pain - Extreme fatigue
Conclusion
An irregular heartbeat can have many causes, ranging from benign to life-threatening. If you notice frequent or severe irregularities in your heartbeat, consulting a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis is essential. Lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help manage or even resolve many types of arrhythmias.
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 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. American College of Cardiology Guidelines on Heart Rhythm Disorders
- https://www.acc.org/Guidelines
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.acc.org/about-acc/press-releases/2019/03/06/10/29/low-carb-diet-tied-to-common-heart-rhythm-disorder
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30412709/
- https://www.jacc.org/guidelines
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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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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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.