Causes of Uneven Heartbeat

Introduction

An uneven heartbeat, also known as an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia, occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern. Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others can indicate serious health problems. Understanding the causes is important for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes of Uneven Heartbeat

1. Heart-Related Causes

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Blocked or narrowed arteries reduce blood flow, leading to arrhythmias.
  • Heart Attacks (Myocardial Infarction): Damage to heart tissue from a heart attack can disrupt electrical signaling.
  • Cardiomyopathy (Heart Muscle Disease): Weakening of the heart muscle can lead to irregular rhythms.
  • Heart Valve Disorders: Improper functioning of heart valves can affect blood flow and cause an irregular heartbeat.

2. Electrolyte Imbalances

  • Low or high levels of potassium, calcium, and magnesium affect the heart’s electrical activity.

3. Hormonal and Metabolic Causes

  • Thyroid Disorders: Overactive or underactive thyroid can disturb heart rhythm.
  • Diabetes: Imbalanced blood sugar levels can contribute to arrhythmias.

4. Lifestyle and External Factors

  • Caffeine, Alcohol, and Nicotine: These substances can stimulate irregular heart rhythms.
  • Medications: Certain drugs, like decongestants or beta-agonists, can cause arrhythmias.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can lead to palpitations.
  • Sleep Apnea: Interrupted breathing at night can affect heart rate and rhythm.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms like dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical help.

Conclusion

An uneven heartbeat can arise from many factors. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for proper management. A heart specialist can help determine the seriousness of the arrhythmia and recommend appropriate interventions.

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 Management of Atrial Fibrillation

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
  2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
  3. https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
  4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/

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