16749 Arrhythmia

Overview

An arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm. Your heart may beat too fast, too slowly, or irregularly. Many arrhythmias are harmless, but some can be serious and need treatment.

Yes, arrhythmias are common. Many people have occasional skipped beats or extra beats, especially as they get older.

It can affect people of all ages. Some people are born with it, but it is more common in older adults and those with heart disease.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A fluttering or racing feeling in your chest (palpitations)
• A heartbeat that seems to skip or 'thump' extra hard
• Feeling dizzy or light-headed
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Feeling tired or weak

Symptoms in children

• A feeling of a fast or irregular heartbeat
• Getting tired quickly during play or sport
• Fainting, especially during exercise
• Poor feeding (in babies)

Symptoms in older adults

• Fainting or near-fainting
• Confusion or memory problems (if blood flow is reduced)
• Less energy or feeling unusually tired
• Shortness of breath with everyday tasks

Causes

Main causes

• Problems with the heart's electrical system
• Heart damage from a previous heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Overactive thyroid (too much thyroid hormone)
• Stress, anxiety, or strong emotions
• Excess caffeine, alcohol, or recreational drugs
• Some medicines and supplements

Risk factors

• Aging
• A family history of arrhythmias
• Coronary artery disease
• Heart failure
• Diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Electrolyte imbalances (for example, low potassium or magnesium)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your local emergency number or go to an emergency department if you faint, have chest pain, or have trouble breathing.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment if you notice a new fluttering, racing, or unusual heartbeat, or if you feel dizzy or short of breath more often.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, listen to your heart, and check your pulse. They may also do an ECG to record your heart's electrical activity.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
• Holter monitor (a portable ECG you wear for a day or more)
• Event recorder (a device you use to record your heart when you have symptoms)
• Blood tests
• Echocardiogram (an ultrasound of your heart)
• Treadmill stress test (if symptoms happen with exercise)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what kind of arrhythmia you have, whether it is a concern, and what steps you can take. Many arrhythmias can be managed with lifestyle changes or treatment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type and cause of your arrhythmia, your symptoms, and your overall health. The goal is to control the rhythm and reduce risk of complications.

Self-care at home

• Learn to take your pulse and know when to call for help
• Limit caffeine and alcohol
• Stop smoking
• Practice stress-relief techniques like slow breathing
• Get enough sleep
• Take any prescribed medicines exactly as directed

Medical treatments

Treatments may include medicines to control heart rate, to prevent blood clots, or to correct an irregular rhythm. Doctors may also use a procedure called cardioversion to shock the heart back to a normal rhythm, or catheter ablation to destroy faulty electrical pathways. Always talk to your doctor about the best options for you.

When is surgery considered?

In some cases, a small device called a pacemaker is implanted under the skin to keep the heartbeat at a safe rate. This is usually for slow heart rhythms or certain serious arrhythmias.

Living with this condition

Many people with arrhythmias live full, active lives. Keep track of your symptoms and follow your care plan. Ask your doctor when you can exercise, drive, and travel.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep follow-up appointments with your cardiologist
• Manage blood pressure and cholesterol
• Avoid triggers like heavy alcohol use or energy drinks
• Wear a medical alert bracelet if advised

Diet and exercise

Eat a heart-healthy diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and low salt. Ask your doctor about the right amount of exercise for you — many people benefit from daily walking or other moderate activity.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a heart condition can cause anxiety or low mood. It is normal to feel nervous. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if worry interferes with your life. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call your local emergency number or a crisis line right away.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent an arrhythmia, but you can lower your risk by keeping your heart healthy.

Screening programmes

Tell your doctor about any family history of sudden cardiac death or arrhythmias so they can decide if extra checks are needed.

Complications

If left untreated

• A severe arrhythmia can reduce blood flow to the brain, leading to fainting or injury.
• It can increase the risk of stroke (if blood pools in the heart and forms a clot).
• In some cases, it may lead to heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest.

Long-term outlook

With the right care, most people with arrhythmias manage them well. Modern treatments are safe and effective, and many people continue to live full, active lives. Your healthcare team will work with you to find the best approach.

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