An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can be caused by the heart beating too quickly (tachycardia), too slowly (brachycardia), or in an uneven pattern. Depending on the underlying cause and severity, this illness can be anything from benign to fatal.Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a frequent arrhythmia that is typified by a fast and erratic heartbeat. An abnormal heart rhythm results from the heart's upper chambers, or atria, quivering instead of contracting normally in arrhythmia. Shortness of breath, dizziness, palpitations, and chest pain are some of the symptoms that may arise from this.Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is another kind in which the heart's ventricles beat too rapidly. Because the heart might not have enough time to fill up with blood before pumping it out to the body, this could be harmful. A reduction in blood flow to essential organs may result from this, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, pain in the chest, and in extreme situations, cardiac arrest. Heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, binge drinking, drug misuse, stress, and some medications are just a few of the conditions that can result in arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can sometimes happen to people who don't have any known heart problems.An electrocardiogram, often known as an EKG or ECG, is frequently used to diagnose arrhythmias. This test measures the electrical activity of the heart. You can also utilize Holter monitors, event monitors, and stress tests to record the heart rhythm over time and during various activities. The kind and severity of an arrhythmia determine how it should be treated. Modest cases may only require small lifestyle adjustments like stress reduction, frequent exercise, and abstaining from stimulants like caffeine. To regulate cardiac rhythm and rate, doctors may also give beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic medications.Procedures like cardioversion—which uses an electric shock to restore normal rhythm—catheter ablation—which destroys aberrant heart tissue—and implantable devices—such pacemakers or defibrillators—may be required for more severe arrhythmias. Arrhythmia necessitates close observation and control. To create a treatment plan that meets their needs, people with this illness must collaborate closely with their healthcare team. Symptom management and the risk of consequences can be decreased with regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications.
