Understand Arrhythmias: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
An abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly, often due to factor affecting its complex system. It's crucial to report any abnormal heart rhythm to a doctor, as not all are life-threatening but should be evaluated.
Arrhythmias can cause symptoms like discomfort, palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, fatigue, and fainting. Diagnosing them may involve a physical examination, electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, rhythm monitoring, and stress tests. Several risk factors contribute to arrhythmias, including smoking, previous heart conditions, diabetes, stress, being overweight, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, alcohol and drug misuse, and sleep apnea. Certain medications, like inhalational anesthetics and ketamine, can also trigger cardiac arrhythmias. The most common types include tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, bradycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and premature contractions. Factor meals, regular exercise, and quitting smoking, can help manage and prevent arrhythmias.
The heart's complex system of valves, nodes, and chambers controls blood flow. Disruptions to this system can alter the heart rate or rhythm, leading to arrhythmias. Factors like high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, heart conditions or damage, medications, anxiety, illness, or other health conditions can cause these disruptions.
Abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, can have various causes and symptoms. While not all are life-threatening, they should be reported to a doctor for evaluation. Heart health and managing underlying conditions can help prevent and manage arrhythmias, ensuring a healthier heart.
