Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia)

Understanding Irregular Heartbeats (Arrhythmia)

Arrhythmia is a condition in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia). It can be harmless or life-threatening, depending on the underlying causes and the heart’s overall condition. Let's explore what arrhythmias are, how they are diagnosed, and what treatments are available.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

The most common type, characterized by rapid and irregular atrial contractions, increasing the risk of stroke

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)

A fast heartbeat originating from the ventricles, which can be dangerous if sustained

Bradycardia

A slow heart rate, usually below 60 beats per minute, which can cause dizziness or fainting

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

A condition where the heart suddenly beats very fast due to electrical misfiring above the ventricles

Premature Beats

Extra heartbeats causing the sensation of a skipped beat or flutter

Heart conditions

Coronary artery disease, heart failure, or structural defects

Electrolyte imbalances

Low potassium or calcium levels

Medications

Some drugs can affect heart rhythm

Excess caffeine or alcohol

Stimulates irregular activity

Stress or excessive physical strain

Affects the autonomic nervous system

Symptoms

Palpitations (fluttering or pounding in the chest)

Dizziness or fainting

Shortness of breath

Fatigue

Chest pain (seek emergency help if severe)

Diagnosis

Electrocardiogram (ECG):

Measures electrical signals of the heart

Angiography:

Portable device recording heart activity for 24–48 hours.

Echocardiogram:

Assesses heart structure and function

Electrophysiology Study (EPS):

Evaluates electrical conduction in detail

Treatment Options

Lifestyle Modifications

Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake

Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly

Manage stress through relaxation techniques

Medications

Antiarrhythmic drugs: Control heart rhythm.

Beta-blockers: Slow heart rate.

Anticoagulants: Reduce stroke risk in atrial fibrillation.

Procedures

Catheter Ablation: Destroys abnormal heart tissue causing arrhythmia.

Pacemaker: Helps regulate slow heartbeats.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): Used for life-threatening arrhythmias.

Conclusion

Arrhythmias are common but treatable conditions. With proper diagnosis and management, most people can lead a normal life. Always consult a cardiologist if you experience symptoms, as early detection is crucial for preventing complications.

Information resources recommended

1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Chronic Stable Angina

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/

https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2023/11/29/18/58/New-ACC-AHA-Guideline-Focuses-on-Diagnosis-Management-of-AFib-gl-af

https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.08.017

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30703431/

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on the Management of Acute Coronary Syndromes

https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003

https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/

https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193

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Diagnoses

Symptoms