Arrhythmia

Introduction

Arrhythmia is a term used to describe any changes in the normal heart rhythm. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including abnormalities in the heart's structure, problems with the heart's electrical conduction system, or certain medications. Some types of arrhythmia are harmless, while others can be serious and even life-threatening. Treatment options depend on the type of arrhythmia and its severity. In some cases, no treatment is necessary, while in others, medications or procedures such as ablation or a pacemaker may be necessary. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have an arrhythmia, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

Symptoms

Palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering)
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting or near-fainting
Weakness or fatigue

Causes

Abnormalities in the heart's structure: Certain heart conditions, such as congenital heart defects or cardiomyopathy (a disease that affects the heart muscle), can increase the risk of arrhythmia.
Problems with the heart's electrical conduction system: The heart's electrical conduction system controls the contraction of the heart muscles and ensures that they contract in a coordinated fashion. If there is a problem with this system, it can cause arrhythmia.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as certain types of antiarrhythmic drugs and certain types of stimulants (such as caffeine), can cause arrhythmia.
Substance abuse: Using certain stimulants, such as amphetamines or cocaine can increase the risk of arrhythmia.
Alcohol abuse: Chronic heavy alcohol use can cause arrhythmia.
Stress or anxiety: Emotional stress or anxiety can sometimes trigger arrhythmia.
Other factors: Other potential causes of arrhythmia include high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, and sleep apnea.

Risk Factors

The risk is increased markedly with age
Weak heart conditions
High blood pressure
Smoking & Alcohol abuse
Substance abuse
Stress or anxiety
Other factors such as – diabetes, thyroid problems, and sleep apnea.

Complications

Cardiac arrest: Arrhythmia can cause the heart to stop pumping blood effectively, leading to cardiac arrest.
Stroke: Arrhythmia can cause blood clots to form in the heart, which can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
Heart failure: Arrhythmia can weaken the heart muscle and lead to heart failure.
Sudden cardiac death: In some cases, arrhythmia can cause sudden cardiac death.

How to diagnose?

Some common tests include:

Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can help identify abnormal heart rhythms.
Holter monitor: A Holter monitor is a portable device that records the heart's electrical activity for a 24-hour period. It can be worn while you go about your normal activities and can help identify arrhythmias that occur infrequently or only during certain activities.
Event monitor: An event monitor is a portable device that is similar to a Holter monitor, but it can be activated by the patient when they experience symptoms. It is typically worn for a longer period of time (up to several months) and can help identify arrhythmias that occur infrequently.
Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the heart. It can help identify structural abnormalities in the heart that may be causing arrhythmia.
Electrophysiology study (EPS): An EPS is a test that uses specialised equipment to study the heart's electrical activity in more detail. It is typically used to identify the specific cause of an arrhythmia and determine the best course of treatment.
If you are experiencing symptoms of arrhythmia or are at risk of developing arrhythmia, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment. They can help determine the appropriate tests to diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan.

How to prevent it?

Eat a healthy diet
Exercise regularly
Avoid alcohol consumption & smoking
Manage stress
Control other medical conditions
Follow your treatment plan

When do you need to see a doctor?

If you are experiencing any symptoms of arrhythmia, such as palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, weakness, or fatigue, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment. Some types of arrhythmia can be serious and even life-threatening, so it is important to get proper medical attention.

FAQs

How serious is arrhythmia?

The seriousness of a heart arrhythmia can vary widely depending on the type of arrhythmia and its severity. Some types of arrhythmia are harmless and do not cause any symptoms or complications, while others can be serious and even life-threatening.

What are 4 types of arrhythmias?

Here are four common types of arrhythmias:

Atrial fibrillation: This type of arrhythmia is characterised by rapid, irregular contractions of the atria (the upper chambers of the heart). It can cause palpitations, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of stroke.
Atrial flutter: This type of arrhythmia is similar to atrial fibrillation, but the atria contract in a regular, but rapid, pattern. It can also cause palpitations, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of stroke.
Ventricular tachycardia: This type of arrhythmia is characterised by rapid, irregular contractions of the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart). It can cause palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and can be life-threatening if not treated.
Bradycardia: This type of arrhythmia is characterised by a slow heart rate (less than 60 beats per minute). It can cause fatigue, lightheadedness, and fainting.

Can anxiety lead to arrhythmia?

Anxiety can sometimes trigger arrhythmia. Emotional stress or anxiety can cause the heart to beat faster or irregularly, leading to arrhythmia. This is known as "supraventricular tachycardia" or "SVT." SVT is a type of arrhythmia that originates in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) and is characterised by rapid heartbeats.

Is it possible for you to live a long life with arrhythmia?

Though arrhythmia is a long-term condition, you may continue to lead a long and active life when managed properly. This can help to manage your condition, lessen the risk of stroke and relieve any worries you might have.

Visit a doctor when you are suffering from heart problems!