What is an Arrhythmia?

An arrhythmia is a disorder of the heart's rhythm. The heart has a natural pacemaker called the sinoatrial (SA) node that produces electrical impulses that coordinate the contraction of the heart muscles. These electrical impulses follow a specific pattern to ensure that the heart pumps blood effectively. An arrhythmia occurs when the heart's electrical activity becomes abnormal, either because the electrical impulses are not being produced or transmitted properly, or because they are being disrupted by other electrical signals. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

There are several types of arrhythmias, including:

• Atrial fibrillation: This is a type of arrhythmia in which the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) contract in an irregular and rapid manner. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, which can lead to blood clots and other complications.

• Ventricular tachycardia: This is a type of arrhythmia in which the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart) contract too quickly. This can cause the heart to pump less effectively, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness, fainting, and chest pain.

• Ventricular fibrillation: This is a life-threatening arrhythmia in which the ventricles contract in a chaotic and ineffective manner. This can cause the heart to stop pumping blood, leading to sudden cardiac arrest.

Arrhythmias can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying heart conditions, high blood pressure, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and stress. They can also be caused by certain medications or medical procedures. Treatment for arrhythmias may include medications, lifestyle changes, or medical procedures such as ablation or the placement of a pacemaker.