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Overview of Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia is a condition characterised by irregular or abnormal heart rhythms. It occurs when the electrical impulses that regulate the heart's rhythm malfunction and leading to a heart arrhythmia. The condition can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow or erratically. In some cases it may not cause any symptoms, while in others it can lead to severe complications such as cardiac arrhythmia and even sudden death.

Types of Arrhythmia

There are several types of arrhythmias each affecting different parts of the heart. Some common types include:

1. Supraventricular arrhythmias: These arise above the ventricles and include conditions like atrial fibrillation arrhythmia (AFib) and supraventricular cardiac arrhythmias.

2. Ventricular arrhythmia: This type originates in the ventricles and can lead to conditions like ventricular arrhythmia and ventricular fibrillation.

3. Sinus arrhythmia: This is a natural variation in heart rate linked to breathing known as respiratory sinus arrhythmia.

4. Bigeminal arrhythmia: A type where every other heartbeat is irregular.

5. Sinus bradycardia with sinus arrhythmia: A slow heartbeat combined with sinus arrhythmia.

Symptoms of Arrhythmia

The symptoms of arrhythmia vary depending on the type and severity. Common arrhythmia symptoms include:

Irregular heartbeat symptoms such as palpitations

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Shortness of breath

Fatigue

Chest pain or discomfort

Causes of Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia causes can vary widely but often include:

Cardiac arrhythmia disease or underlying heart conditions like coronary artery disease

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Arrhythmia heart disease

Abnormalities in the heart's electrical system

Lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption

Infections or electrolyte imbalances

Arrhythmia sudden death syndrome in extreme cases

Complications in Arrhythmia

If left untreated arrhythmias can lead to serious complications, such as:

Cardiac dysrhythmia leading to heart failure.

Stroke, particularly in cases of atrial arrhythmia like atrial fibrillation arrhythmia.

Sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases, especially with ventricular arrhythmia.

Arrhythmia ventricular fibrillation, a life threatening condition.

Risk Factors of Arrhythmia

Several factors increase the risk of developing arrhythmias, including:

Older adults are at a higher risk

Heart disease, such as coronary artery disease or heart attack history

High blood pressure or diabetes

Family history of arrhythmia

Lifestyle factors like smoking and high alcohol intake

Preventions of Arrhythmia

While it may not always be preventable, the risk of arrhythmia can be reduced by:

Regular exercise to maintain heart health

Avoiding excessive alcohol, caffeine and tobacco

Managing stress

Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check

Eating a heart-healthy diet