Arrhythmias – irregular heartbeat
Arrhythmias of the heart is an abnormality of the rhythm or rate of the heartbeat. In this the normal electrical activity of the heart is affected. The normal heartbeat is 72beats per minute. In Arrhythmias the number of heart beat increases or decreases. The beat may also be irregular and may begin in an abnormal area of the heart. Arrhythmias may or may not be life threatening.
Types of arrhythmias.
It is divided into 2 main groups:
Tachycardias: increase in the heart rate, which is more than100 beats per minute
Bradycardias: decrease in the heart rate, which is less than 60 beats per minute.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may vary from person to person. It depends on the type of arrhythmia. The symptoms include:
- dizziness,
- palpitations, or an unusual feeling of the heart beating in the chest
- shortness of breath
- fatigue
- weakness
- chest pain
- fainting
Untreated arrhythmias can cause heart attacks, strokes, and even death.
What are the causes?
Heart disease is the major cause of arrhythmias.
- coronary artery disease, a condition in which narrowing of the arteries takes place. Thus decreasing the blood flow to the heart.
- disease of the heart valves due to some infection.
- congestive heart failure, a condition in which the heart fails to pump enough blood to the body.
- disease in the electrical system of the heart.
How is the condition diagnosed?
Arrhythmias can be detected with ECG. A device called a Holter monitor can also be used. This device records all heartbeats within a 24-hour period.
In case of complications, doctor may suggest you a test called cardiac catheterization. This helps to determine the type of arrhythmia is present.
What are the treatments available?
Different treatments are available, depending on the type of arrhythmia being treated. Medications to restore the rhythm of the heart is generally given by your doctor. A small device called pacemaker may be inserted to control an arrhythmia or speed up a heart that is beating too slowly.
What can be done to prevent the condition?
A person can reduce the risk for developing arrhythmias by:
- not smoking
- controlling high blood pressure
- controlling blood cholesterol
- controlling diabetes
- exercising regularly
- limiting the intake of alcohol and caffeine
- eating a diet designed to minimize heart disease