Medical & Clinical Reviews

Description

Arrhythmia is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal heart rhythm. It occurs when the heart beats too quickly (tachycardia), too slowly (bradycardia), or irregularly. This irregularity in the heartbeat can disrupt the normal functioning of the heart and may lead to serious complications if left untreated. There are several types of arrhythmias, each with its own causes and symptoms. Some of the most common types include Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is one of the most prevalent types of arrhythmia and occurs when the heart's upper chambers (atria) beat irregularly and too quickly. This can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. Bradycardia is a condition where the heart beats too slowly, usually fewer than 60 beats per minute. This can result in dizziness, fatigue, fainting and even cardiac arrest in severe cases. Tachycardia is a condition where the heart beats too quickly, usually more than 100 beats per minute. This rapid heartbeat can cause palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, and fainting.

Ventricular ibrillation

Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib) is a life-threatening arrhythmia where the heart's lower chambers (ventricles) quiver instead of pumping blood effectively. This can lead to sudden cardiac arrest if not treated immediately with CPR and defibrillation. Among the most serious arrhythmias is Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib), where the heart's lower chambers (ventricles) quiver instead of contracting properly, preventing effective blood pumping. Immediate medical intervention is vital, as VFib can swiftly progress to sudden cardiac arrest without prompt treatment with CPR and defibrillation. Premature contractions occur when the heart's electrical signals cause it to contract prematurely. This can result in palpitations or skipped beats. The causes of arrhythmias can vary widely and may include heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, stress, and certain medications. In some cases, arrhythmias may also be genetic or occur without any identifiable cause. Diagnosing arrhythmias typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination and diagnostic tests such as Electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter monitor, event monitor, echocardiogram, stress test, or electrophysiology study.

Antiarrhythmic medications

Antiarrhythmic medications are often prescribed to help regulate the heart's rhythm and prevent complications. Cardioversion is a procedure that uses electrical shocks or medications to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients with certain types of arrhythmias. Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure where a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the heart to destroy small areas of heart tissue that are causing the abnormal electrical signals. Devices such as pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs) may be implanted surgically to help regulate the heart's rhythm and prevent sudden cardiac arrest. Making lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can help reduce the risk of arrhythmias and improve overall heart health. arrhythmias are common cardiac conditions characterized by abnormal heart rhythms that can range from benign to lifethreatening. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing arrhythmias and reducing the risk of complications such as stroke, heart failure and sudden cardiac arrest.