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.
Understanding Irregular Heartbeats (Arrhythmias)
Introduction
An irregular heartbeat, also known as an arrhythmia, refers to any disturbance in the normal rhythm of the heart. These disturbances can be harmless or indicate a serious underlying medical condition.
Causes of Irregular Heartbeat
There are several possible causes of arrhythmias, including:
1. Heart-Related Causes:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): Blocked arteries reduce blood supply to the heart, affecting its electrical system.
- Heart attack (Myocardial infarction): Can cause damage to the heart muscle and disrupt normal electrical signals.
- Heart failure: Weakening of the heart muscle can lead to rhythm disturbances.
- Valvular heart disease: Problems with heart valves can lead to atrial fibrillation (AFib) and other arrhythmias.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances:
- Potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium ions help regulate heartbeats. Any imbalance can lead to arrhythmias.
3. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):
- Increased blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart and can lead to structural changes, contributing to arrhythmia.
4. Stress and Anxiety:
- Emotional stress or panic attacks can cause palpitations or irregular beats due to adrenaline surges.
5. Stimulants and Medications:
- Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and recreational drugs can trigger irregular heartbeats.
- Certain medications (such as decongestants, beta-agonists, and some antidepressants) may induce arrhythmias.
6. Hormonal Disorders:
- Thyroid disorders (both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism) can affect heart rates and rhythm.
7. Sleep Apnea:
- Conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea can trigger atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias.
8. Genetic Factors:
- Some people inherit conditions that predispose them to arrhythmias, such as Long QT Syndrome or Brugada Syndrome.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience: - Persistent irregular heartbeat - Dizziness or fainting - Shortness of breath - Chest pain or discomfort - Palpitations that don’t go away
Conclusion
While occasional irregular heartbeats can be harmless, persistent or symptomatic arrhythmias require medical evaluation. If you suspect you have an irregular heartbeat, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and management.
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 Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
- 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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