“How common is arrhythmia? Do I have it?” You might wonder this when your heart races for too long after a workout session or a cup of coffee. What symptoms need attention, and are the causes clear? Let’s explore the definition, symptoms, and causes of arrhythmia.
What is Arrhythmia?
Arrhythmia refers to any form of irregular heart rate or rhythm. Generally, a normal heart beats 60 to 100 times per minute in a regular rhythm. When a person’s heart beats faster than 100 times per minute or slower than 60 times per minute, it is referred to as arrhythmia.
Even if the heart rate is within the normal range, an irregular rhythm can indicate conditions such as ectopic beats or atrial fibrillation and requires medical attention.
Symptoms of Arrhythmia
Here are some common symptoms of arrhythmia, categorized by fast, slow, and irregular heartbeat:
Fast heartbeat (over 100 times per minute at rest):
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitation
- Chest pain
- Faint
- Unconsciousness in severe cases
Types of fast heartbeat include ventricular fibrillation, atrial fibrillation, and ventricular tachycardia.
Slow heartbeat (below 60 times per minute at rest):
- Weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness
- Decreased consciousness in severe cases
Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a major type of slow heartbeat.
Irregular heartbeat (within normal range but speeds up, slows down, or skips a beat)
- Chest tightness
- Palpitation
- Dizziness
- Shock in severe cases
A prevalent form of irregular heartbeat is atrial fibrillation.
Causes of Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia can be attributed to multiple factors. The common ones include:
- Genetic disorder or family history
- Coronary heart disease, other heart problems, or previous heart surgery
- High blood pressure
- Thyroid disease
- Diabetes
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Drug abuse
- Smoking or overconsumption of caffeine
- Mental stress
- Excessive alcohol
- Anemia
Prohibited drugs such as cocaine can affect the heart significantly, and smoking or excessive caffeine consumption may also cause a fast heart rate. The idea that drinking alcohol protects the heart is a misconception. In truth, excessive alcohol intake is associated with arrhythmia.
The heart functions every day and night. Many symptoms of heart issues can be subtle and often go unnoticed until a checkup. To ensure prompt treatment, it is advisable to seek medical consultation upon noticing symptoms of arrhythmia. Regular health checkups are also recommended.