Irregular Heart Beats

Causes

Arrhythmias can be caused by various factors, including:

Heart diseases:

Conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, and valvular heart disease can disrupt the heart’s electrical system.

High blood pressure:

High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can increase the risk of developing arrhythmias.

Electrical system abnormalities:

Certain congenital heart defects or abnormalities in the heart’s electrical pathways can lead to arrhythmias.

Imbalance of electrolytes:

Abnormal levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the body can affect the heart’s electrical signals.

Heart conditions:

Other heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or heart attack, can lead to valvular problems.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of arrhythmias can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

Palpitations or a sensation of fluttering or pounding in the chest.

Rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat.

Fatigue or weakness.

Dizziness or lightheadedness.

Fainting or near-fainting episodes.

Diagnosis:

To diagnose arrhythmias, healthcare providers may perform several tests, such as:

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG):

Records the heart’s electrical activity to identify any abnormal rhythms.

Holter monitor:

A portable ECG device worn for 24 to 48 hours to record the heart’s electrical activity continuously.

Event monitor:

Similar to a Holter monitor, but worn for an extended period of time and activated by the patient when experiencing symptoms

Echocardiogram:

Uses sound waves to create images of the heart, assessing its structure and function.

Electrophysiology study (EPS):

Invasive procedure involving the insertion of catheters into blood vessels to evaluate the heart’s electrical system and provoke abnormal rhythms.

Treatment:

The treatment of arrhythmias depends on the type, frequency, and severity of the condition, as well as the presence of any underlying heart disease. Treatment options include:

Medications:

Antiarrhythmic medications may be prescribed to control or prevent abnormal heart rhythms.

Cardioversion:

A procedure that uses electrical shocks or medications to restore normal heart rhythm.

Catheter ablation:

A procedure in which a catheter is used to deliver energy to the heart tissue to destroy the cells causing abnormal rhythms.

Implantable devices:

Devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may be implanted to regulate the heart’s electrical signals or deliver shocks to restore normal rhythm.

Lifestyle changes:

Making lifestyle modifications such as managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding triggers like excessive alcohol or caffeine.