About-Cardio
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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.
What Causes Heart Irregularities?
Introduction
Heart irregularities, also known as arrhythmias, are disruptions in the normal rhythm of the heart. They may cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or erratically. These irregularities can be harmless, but in some cases, they may lead to serious complications such as stroke or heart failure.
Causes of Heart Irregularities
1. Structural Heart Problems
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): Narrowed or blocked arteries reduce blood supply to the heart muscle, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.
- Heart valve disorders: Faulty heart valves disturb normal blood flow and may lead to irregular heartbeats.
- Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with structural issues that can lead to arrhythmias.
2. Electrical System Malfunctions
- Problems in the heart's electrical pathways can cause irregular heartbeats.
- Certain genetic conditions (e.g., Long QT Syndrome, Brugada Syndrome) disrupt the heart’s natural rhythm.
3. Medical Conditions
- High blood pressure (hypertension): Puts stress on the heart, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.
- Diabetes: Alters metabolism and increases the risk of CAD and arrhythmias.
- Thyroid disorders: Overactive or underactive thyroid glands can affect heart rate.
- Sleep apnea: Interruptions in breathing during sleep can trigger arrhythmias.
4. Lifestyle and External Factors
- Excessive caffeine or alcohol: Stimulants can provoke irregular heart activity.
- Smoking: Damages blood vessels and raises the risk of arrhythmias.
- Stress and anxiety: High stress levels can stimulate abnormal heart activity.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Potassium, calcium, and magnesium play vital roles in heart function.
5. Medication and Substance Use
- Certain medications (e.g., decongestants, asthma drugs, antidepressants) can affect heart rhythm.
- Recreational drugs: Cocaine, amphetamines, and other stimulants increase arrhythmia risk.
Conclusion
While heart irregularities can be caused by many factors, understanding the risks and managing underlying conditions can help prevent serious complications. If you experience irregular heartbeats, dizziness, chest pain, or fainting, seek medical evaluation.
References:
Here are clinical guidelines related to heart rhythm disorders:
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 Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320108/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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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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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.