Arrhythmia
What is Arrhythmia?
Arrhythmia refers to a disorder of the heart rhythm, which can range from minor disturbances to life-threatening conditions. It is most often caused by electrical problems in the heart, although other factors such as thyroid disease, genetic conditions, stress, or certain medications can also trigger an irregular heartbeat. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of arrhythmia and to make lifestyle changes such as cutting down on alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, and caffeine or getting regular physical activity to help manage the condition.
Types of Arrhythmia
There are several types of arrhythmias, each of which can be classified according to its frequency, type of electrical activity, and possible cause. Common types of arrhythmia include:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF): This is the most common type of arrhythmia and causes an irregular, rapid heart rate, often in the range of 110 to 150 beats per minute. It is caused by a problem with electrical signals in the heart.
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): This is a rapid heartbeat that begins in another part of the heart. It is usually caused by an abnormal electrical connection between parts of the heart’s electrical conduction system.
- Ventricular fibrillation (V-fib): This type of arrhythmia can be life-threatening and involves a chaotic, ineffective quivering of the heart muscle instead of coordinated contraction.
- Premature ventricular beats: These extra heartbeats often occur in clusters and may feel like a skipped heartbeat.
- Ventricular tachycardia (VT): This type of arrhythmia involves a rapid and irregular heartbeat in the ventricles.
Risk Factors for Arrhythmia
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing an arrhythmia, including:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- History of heart attack or heart disease
- Stress
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Certain medications or supplements
- Family history of arrhythmia
Signs and Symptoms of Arrhythmia
The signs and symptoms of an arrhythmia vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Palpitations (sensation of irregular heartbeats)
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Fainting or near fainting
- Excessive sweating
Diagnosis and Treatment of Arrhythmia
If you have symptoms of arrhythmia, your doctor will likely order tests to check your heart rhythm and function. Tests may include an electrocardiogram (EKG) to measure the electrical activity of your heart, a Holter monitor to detect irregular heartbeats over a period of time, or a stress test to measure blood flow to the heart during exercise. Your doctor may also recommend medications to control your heart rate or rhythm, or to treat underlying diseases.
In certain cases, surgery may be necessary to treat an arrhythmia. Procedures such as implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) or ablation (a procedure to destroy tissue or other abnormal electrical pathways in the heart) may be used to correct electrical problems that cause arrhythmias.