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