Signs of Abnormal Heartbeat

Introduction

An abnormal heartbeat, also known as an arrhythmia, occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others may indicate serious heart conditions that require medical attention.

Types of Arrhythmias and Their Symptoms

1. Tachycardia (Fast Heartbeat) – More than 100 beats per minute

  • Symptoms:
    • Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
    • Dizziness
    • Shortness of breath
    • Chest pain
    • Fainting or near-fainting

2. Bradycardia (Slow Heartbeat) – Less than 60 beats per minute

  • Symptoms:
    • Fatigue
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • Shortness of breath
    • Confusion or memory issues
    • Fainting

3. Irregular Heartbeat (Atrial Fibrillation or Other Arrhythmias)

  • Symptoms:
    • Irregular, often rapid heartbeat
    • Weakness or fatigue
    • Chest discomfort
    • Shortness of breath
    • Dizziness

When to Seek Medical Help?

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience: - Chest pain or discomfort - Severe dizziness or loss of consciousness - Shortness of breath - A heart rate that is extremely fast, slow, or irregular

Possible Causes

  • Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart failure)
  • High blood pressure
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Thyroid problems
  • Medications (certain stimulants or heart drugs)
  • Excessive caffeine or alcohol
  • Stress and lack of sleep

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the heart’s electrical activity.
  • Holter Monitor: A continuous ECG monitor worn for 24-48 hours.
  • Electrophysiological Study: Evaluates electrical pathways in the heart.
  • Treatment Options:
    • Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management)
    • Medications (to regulate heart rhythm and rate)
    • Medical procedures (pacemaker, catheter ablation, defibrillators)

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of an abnormal heartbeat is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any signs mentioned above, consult a doctor promptly.

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 Arrhythmias

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
  2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
  3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320108/
  5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84

Our advantages:

patient2376100
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.
prescription18648039
Always up-to-date information
On a daily basis, we monitor for you all new scientific research publications in leading scientific journals on medical issues of interest to you.
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
fvfflf7q
Get second opinion
Here you can learn everything that even your doctor may not know about cardiology (if he does not speak English and he does not read 117 leading medical journals on cardiology every month).
1xr4duup
The most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of free cardiology materials
Our website contains the most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of free cardiology materials in your country.
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.
arrow
Please register in order to receive information regarding possible complications and new approaches to treatment of cardiovascular diseases via email in our Newsletters.
arrow