Arrhythmia

What is Arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia is a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat, which can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratic. It can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Heart disease: Coronary artery disease or heart attack can damage heart tissue and lead to arrhythmias.
• High blood pressure: Increases the risk by causing the heart to work harder.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Affect the heart's electrical impulses.
• Medications: Some drugs, including those for treating heart conditions, can trigger arrhythmias.
• Alcohol or caffeine: Excessive intake can lead to irregular heartbeats.

Symptoms of Arrhythmia

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Palpitations (fluttering or pounding in the chest)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chest pain
• Fainting (syncope) in severe cases

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic Tests

To diagnose arrhythmia, doctors may use:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): A test that records the heart's electrical activity.
• Holter monitor: A portable ECG device worn for a day or more to track heart activity.
• Event monitor: Similar to a Holter monitor but used for longer periods.
• Electrophysiological study: To map electrical pathways in the heart.

Treatment Options

• Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs, beta-blockers, and anticoagulants to manage the condition.
• Cardioversion: A procedure using electrical shocks to restore a normal heart rhythm.
• Catheter ablation: A minimally invasive procedure to destroy the heart tissue causing the arrhythmia.
• Implantable devices: Pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) for severe cases.

Prognosis

The prognosis for arrhythmia depends on the type and underlying cause. Many arrhythmias are manageable with treatment, allowing individuals to lead healthy lives.