Arrhythmia is a disorder of the heart's electrical system that causes irregular heartbeats. The heart may beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

What is arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia occurs when the heart's electrical impulses that control heartbeats don't work properly. This can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

Types of arrhythmia

Bradyarrhythmia (slow heart rate):

Heart beats less than 60 times per minute
Can cause fatigue and fainting
More common in older adults

Tachyarrhythmia (fast heart rate):

Heart beats more than 100 times per minute at rest
Can feel like heart palpitations
Can be dangerous if it lasts long

Atrial fibrillation:

Irregular heartbeats in the atria
Most common arrhythmia
Increases risk of stroke

Symptoms of arrhythmia

Common symptoms:

Heart palpitations or "skipping" beats
Fatigue and weakness
Shortness of breath
Chest pain or pressure
Dizziness or fainting
Cold sweats

Important to know:

Many arrhythmias cause no symptoms
Symptoms may come and go
Serious arrhythmias can be life-threatening

Causes of arrhythmia

Heart-related causes:

Previous heart attack
Heart failure
Heart muscle inflammation
Heart valve problems
Coronary artery disease

Other causes:

High blood pressure
Diabetes
Thyroid problems
Stress and anxiety
Caffeine and alcohol
Certain medications
Electrolyte imbalances

Diagnosis

Tests:

ECG (electrocardiogram)
Holter monitoring (24-hour ECG)
Echocardiogram
Stress test
Electrophysiological study

Treatment of arrhythmia

Lifestyle changes:

Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Manage stress
Regular exercise
Healthy diet
Quit smoking

Medical treatment:

Antiarrhythmic medications
Blood thinners
Heart rate regulating medications

Procedures:

Cardioversion (electric shock)
Catheter ablation
Pacemaker
ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator)

When should I seek care?

Seek immediate care if you experience:

Severe heart palpitations
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or fainting
Arrhythmia that lasts long

How Min Hälsa can help

We can help you with:

Assessment of heart rhythm problems
Referral to cardiologist
Advice on lifestyle changes
Follow-up of arrhythmia
Support for stress management

Arrhythmia