Arrhythmia

Overview

Arrhythmia is when your heart beats abnormally. If the rhythm is too fast it is called tachycardia. When it is too slow it's called bradycardia. An arrhythmia can also mean that your heart beats irregularly that it skips a beat or has an extra beat. Almost everyone has felt a minor change in their heart beat and in most cases this is not a cause for alarm. However some people have arrhythmias that are dangerous and that require treatment.

Causes

Arrhythmias are caused by a disruption of the normal electrical system of the heart. An electrical signal controls the contractions of heart that push blood through its four chambers. The actual heart rate depends on nerve impulses and hormones in the blood. Any change in these can cause a change in the heart's rhythm. A variety of things can trigger a change including exercise stress certain drugs caffeine smoking and drinking too much alcohol.

Symptoms

Call 911 immediately if you have any of these symptoms. While they may suggest arrhythmia they may also be warning signs of a heart attack:

  • Palpitations or rapid thumping in your chest
  • Feeling tired or light-headed
  • Passing out
  • Shortness of breath. Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Changes in the rate rhythm or pattern of the pulse
  • Paleness
  • Sweating. Cool clammy skin
  • Fear. Anxiety. Denial.

If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort especially with one or more of the other signs don't wait longer before calling for help. Call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away.

Treatment

Some mild arrhythmias require no treatment other than simple lifestyle changes. However your doctor may want to send you for an electrocardiogram or ECG. This may include a stress test in which you walk on a treadmill while your heart is being monitored. If your doctor is concerned about your arrhythmias he may prescribe drugs. In more serious cases you may require bypass surgery or an artificial pacemaker.

Prevention

You may be able to decrease your likelihood of developing an arrhythmia by taking the same steps you would to prevent coronary artery disease:

  • Don't smoke
  • Eat a well-balanced low-fat diet
  • Exercise regularly

Additional Resources

Heart And Stroke Foundation