Types of EKG Rhythms

Introduction

Electrocardiography (EKG or ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. By analyzing these electrical signals, doctors can determine heart rhythms and detect potential abnormalities. There are several types of heart rhythms observed on an EKG, which can be broadly classified into normal, slow (bradycardia), fast (tachycardia), and irregular rhythms.

Normal Heart Rhythm

1. Sinus Rhythm

• This is the normal rhythm of the heart.
• It originates from the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart’s natural pacemaker.
• The heart rate typically ranges between 60–100 beats per minute (BPM).
• The P wave, QRS complex, and T wave appear in a regular, repeating pattern.

Abnormal Heart Rhythms

Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rhythms)

2. Sinus Bradycardia
- A normal but slow rhythm (<60 BPM). - Often seen in athletes or during sleep. - Can occur due to medications, hypothyroidism, or heart block.

3. Heart Block (Atrioventricular Block or AV Block)
- Electrical signals between the atria and ventricles are delayed or blocked. - Types: - First-degree AV block: Mild delay, usually not serious. - Second-degree AV block (Mobitz I and II): Partial failure of conduction. - Third-degree AV block (Complete heart block): Total blockage requiring a pacemaker.

Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rhythms)

4. Sinus Tachycardia
- Normal rhythm but fast (>100 BPM). - Often caused by exercise, fever, dehydration, or stress.

5. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
- Irregular, chaotic rhythm from the atria. - Increases the risk of stroke and heart failure. - Common in elderly patients and those with high blood pressure.

6. Atrial Flutter
- Similar to atrial fibrillation but more organized and regular. - Can lead to stroke and heart-related complications.

7. Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
- A rapid heartbeat originating above the ventricles. - Causes palpitations, dizziness, and chest discomfort.

8. Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
- A serious, life-threatening rhythm often caused by heart disease. - Can lead to ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest.

9. Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib)
- A chaotic, uncoordinated contraction of the ventricles. - Leads to cardiac arrest and requires immediate defibrillation.

Conclusion

Understanding different EKG rhythms helps in diagnosing and treating heart conditions. If you experience palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or chest pain, consult a doctor immediately.

References

For more details, refer to established clinical guidelines:

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines

1. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
2. https://www.heart.org/
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
4. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001063

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/39/4043/7238227
5. https://www.escardio.org/