Arrhythmia

Description of Arrhythmia

Description

An arrhythmia is a condition in which the heartbeat is irregular. Arrhythmia can occur along with a regular or an irregular heart rate.

Causes and Risk Factors

Many factors can affect your heart's rhythm, such as:

1. Associated heart disease or Coronary artery disease

2. Electrolyte level imbalance in blood
3. Smoking

4. Congenital heart defects

5. Stress

6. Certain substances or medicines

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of arrhythmia include:

1. Palpitations or Skipping beats
2. Lightheadedness or dizziness

3. Chest pain

4. Shortness of breath

5. Sweating

Investigations

Your doctor may recommend tests to find out if you have an arrhythmia.

Tests recommended are:

1. ECG or Electrocardiogram

2. Holter monitor

3. Stress test

4. Echocardiogram

5. Cardiac catheterization

6. Tilt Table test
7. Electrophysiology study (EPS)

Treatment

Treatment to restore a normal heart rhythm may include:

1. Medicines

2. Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or pacemaker

3. Surgery

Content Details

Last updated on: 23 Jan 2020 | 10:59 AM (IST)