Understanding Arrhythmia: Types, Causes, and Symptoms

March 22, 2025 | 5 mins read

The human heart beats rhythmically, coordinating actuated actions so that blood circulates throughout the body non-stop. However, when the heartbeats become irregular—too fast, too slow, or erratic—this condition is termed an arrhythmia. Arrhythmias can either be harmless or life-threatening; hence, it is necessary to recognize their various types, causes, and symptoms.

What is Arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia entails an abnormality of the heart's rhythm. The heart should beat within the range of 60-100 beats per minute for an adult at rest. Whenever the heart deviates from this normal rhythm, it may be considered an arrhythmia. This state occurs due to interference with the electrical signal that controls its beating pattern.

Types of Arrhythmia

1. Tachycardia (Fast Heartbeat)

• Atrial Fibrillation: A rapid and irregular heartbeat originating in the atria, increasing stroke and heart failure risk.
• Atrial Flutter: Similar to AFib but more organized and regular.
• Supraventricular Tachycardia: A fast heart rate from above the ventricles, possibly causing dizziness.
• Ventricular Tachycardia: A dangerous arrhythmia that may lead to cardiac arrest.
• Ventricular Fibrillation: A life-threatening condition where ventricles quiver instead of contracting properly.

2. Bradycardia (Slow Heartbeat)

• Sinus Bradycardia: A naturally slow heart rate, often seen in athletes.
• Sick Sinus Syndrome: Malfunction of the sinus node leading to slow or irregular heartbeats.
• Heart Block: A block of electrical signals affecting heartbeat conduction.

3. Premature Heartbeats

• Premature Atrial Contractions: Extra beats from the atria.
• Premature Ventricular Contractions: Extra beats from the ventricles, often felt as "skipped heartbeats."

Causes of Arrhythmia

1. Heart-related Causes

• Coronary artery disease
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Valvular heart disease
• Congenital heart defects

2. External Triggers

• Excessive caffeine or alcohol
• Smoking and drug use
• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep apnea

3. Medical Conditions and Medications

• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Certain medications

Symptoms of Arrhythmia

• Palpitations
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Fainting
• Fatigue

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic Tests

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Holter Monitor
• Echocardiogram
• Stress Test
• Electrophysiological Study

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle changes
• Medications
• Medical procedures like catheter ablation and pacemaker implantation

Living with Arrhythmia

Managing arrhythmia involves lifestyle changes and regular medical checkups. Recognizing symptoms, avoiding triggers, and adhering to prescribed medications help improve heart health.

Preventing Arrhythmia

• Healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Stress management
• Routine health checkups
• Avoiding stimulants

When to Seek Medical Help

• Frequent or prolonged palpitations
• Abnormal heartbeat in someone with heart disease
• Unexplained fainting or weakness
• Chest pain

Conclusion

Arrhythmias are complex but manageable with early recognition and treatment. Those in Delhi looking for expert cardiac care should consider consulting Dr. Vanita Arora, a leading specialist in heart rhythm disorders.