Arrhythmia is a condition where the heart beats irregularly — too fast, too slow, or with an uneven rhythm. It means the normal electrical impulses that regulate heartbeats are disrupted.
🧬 Causes:
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Heart diseases (coronary artery disease, heart attack)
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Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, calcium)
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High blood pressure
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Stress or anxiety
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Certain medications
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Excessive caffeine or alcohol use
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Thyroid disorders
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Congenital heart defects
⚡ Types of Arrhythmia:
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Tachycardia: Heart beats too fast (above 100 beats per minute)
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Bradycardia: Heart beats too slow (below 60 beats per minute)
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Atrial fibrillation: Rapid, irregular beating of the upper heart chambers
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Ventricular fibrillation: Rapid, erratic beating of the lower heart chambers, which can be life-threatening
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Premature contractions: Extra beats that disrupt the normal rhythm
⚠️ Symptoms:
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Palpitations (feeling the heart racing or skipping beats)
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Shortness of breath
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Chest pain or discomfort
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Fatigue or weakness
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Fainting or near fainting
🩺 Diagnosis:
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Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) — measures electrical activity of the heart
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Holter monitor — portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours
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Event monitor — records heart rhythm during symptoms
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Echocardiogram — ultrasound to check heart structure
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Blood tests to check for underlying causes
🩹 Treatment:
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Lifestyle changes (reduce caffeine, manage stress)
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Medications (beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics)
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Medical procedures (cardioversion, catheter ablation)
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Implantable devices (pacemaker, defibrillator)
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Surgery in severe cases
🔑 Importance:
Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others can lead to serious complications such as stroke or sudden cardiac arrest. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial.