Any abnormal rhythm or heart rate is known as cardiac arrhythmia. Normally, the heart beats at a rate of 60 to 100 times per minute. So, this irregular heartbeat is a group of conditions when the heart beats either too fast, too slow, or irregular. Thus, here’s everything you need to know about cardiac arrhythmias, from types, symptoms, to diagnosis.

Cardiac Arrhythmias Types

Cardiac arrhythmias are classified either by their origin or their effect on the heart rate. So, when we look at them based on their origin, they can be ventricular or supraventricular. ventricular arrhythmias originate in the ventricles while supraventricular arrhythmias originate in the atria or other heart areas above the ventricles. Moreover, when we look at cardiac arrhythmias based on their effect on the heart rate, they can be either bradycardia (less than 60 heartbeats per minute) and tachycardia (more than 100 heartbeats per minute).

Likewise, there are other common types of cardiac arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, sinus node dysfunction, and ventricular tachycardia. Atrial fibrillation causes irregular and rapid heartbeat and the heartbeat signals appear in many different locations. Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias trigger rapid heartbeats which start in parts of the heart above the ventricles. Sinus node dysfunction causes a slow heart rate due to scar tissue which develops and replaces the sinus node. Ventricular tachycardia is an abnormal heart rhythm which starts in either the right or left ventricle and it might last for seconds or even hours.

Cardiac Arrhythmias Symptoms

The symptoms may vary and they are usually associated with the type of cardiac arrhythmias. Thus, the symptoms of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias are usually fainting, low blood pressure, and palpitations. Moreover, extreme fatigue and dizziness are the most common symptoms of sinus node dysfunction. There are usually no symptoms of atrial fibrillation, but occasionally a person might experience angina, shortness of breath, and weakness. Last but not least, absent pulse and unconsciousness are the symptoms of ventricular fibrillation.

Diagnosis

In order to get the right diagnosis, you should visit your doctor. First and foremost, your practitioner will ask about your family medical history, go through your personal medical history, and ask to describe your symptoms. Then, your doctor will perform a physical examination where he will check your heart rate, rhythm, and pulses. Moreover, it’s likely that your physician will examine any physical signs. Furthermore, he will perform an electrocardiogram (EKG) which can either be a one-time office or an ambulatory EKG. If your physician suggests an ambulatory EKG, you will be asked to wear a portable EKG machine (a Holter monitor) either for 24 hours or longer.

Duration and Prevention of Cardiac Arrhythmias

The expected duration of cardiac arrhythmias usually depends on the cause which triggers it. Hence, if caused by an overactive thyroid, it might go as soon as the issue is treated. However, it might also be a long-term problem or in rare cases, it might result in death within minutes.

Fortunately, there are numerous steps you can undertake to prevent cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, in order to prevent this irregular heartbeat, it’s important to:

• stop smoking;
• maintain a healthy weight;
• do regular physical exercise;
• control high blood pressure and cholesterol levels;
• consume healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruit, and fish;

If your cardiac arrhythmias are caused by some medications you’re taking, consult your physician. You might be asked to switch to another medication. Unfortunately, not all cardiac arrhythmias can be prevented.