HealthyCanada.com

Cardiac arrhythmias are disruptions in the normal rhythm of the heartbeat. While this may sound quite serious they are extremely common especially as we get older. An occasional palpitation or fluttering of the heart is generally harmless. People generally do not feel their heart beating. When they do feel their heart beating we call this a palpitation. While the most common cause of palpitations is anxiety and panic disruptions in normal heartbeat that occur frequently they could be a sign of a cardiac or another cause (see below).

The underlying cause of cardiac arrhythmias can't always be determined. However certain conditions appear to contribute to the problem including:

• anxiety
• Atrial Fibrillation
• hyperthyroidism
• coronary artery disease
• congestive heart failure
• congenital heart disease
• heart attack
• hyperventilation
• diabetes
• dehydration

These conditions can affect the heart's natural pacemaker or interrupt its electrical signals. Some prescription drugs can also cause arrhythmias.

In some cases cardiac arrhythmias are hardly noticeable. Often however there is a clear flutter of the heart; a feeling that it has skipped a beat and is rushing to "catch up". There may also be:

• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• chest pain
• dizziness
• fainting
• lightheadedness
• confusion
• loss of consciousness

Millions of people experience cardiac arrhythmias every year and require no treatment. However if you are experiencing frequent or serious arrhythmias early diagnosis of an underlying cause is critical. Depending on the cause your doctor may prescribe medications such as beta-blockers calcium channel blockers blood thinners or digitalis.

Panic or anxiety is a very common cause and it is vital that you don't disregard this. While it is important to rule out cardiac or other possible origins it is also important to recognize that anxiety is the most common cause. This is a medical condition like any other. Educating yourself and reading about it can make a big difference. Some simple cognitive-behavioural exercises can really help.

If you have a history of serious cardiac arrhythmias or if you've had a heart attack in the past see your doctor immediately if you experience further palpitations - even if you have no other symptoms.

In an emergency an electric shock may be required to restore normal heart rhythm. Surgery can correct some underlying problems such as blocked coronary arteries or a damaged heart valve. In some cases a pacemaker may have to be implanted in the chest.

• Don't smoke
• Drink alcohol and coffee in moderation
• Exercise your heart regularly; walk run or engage in some other aerobic activity. Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.