Irregular Heartbeat: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is an Irregular Heartbeat?

The heart consists of four chambers: two atria (left, right) and two ventricles (left, right). These chambers work together thanks to electrical signals. The sinus node located in the right atrium is the heart's "natural pacemaker," emitting the initial electrical impulse that stimulates heart muscle cells, leading to rhythmic contraction. The normal resting heart rate in adults (about 60-100 beats/minute) depends on the activity of the sinus node.

An irregular heartbeat is a condition where the heart does not beat in a consistent rhythm. Instead of maintaining a stable and regular beat, the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

Causes of Irregular Heartbeat

• Stress and Anxiety: Stress can stimulate the nervous system, leading to an increased heart rate and causing an irregular heartbeat.

• Dietary Habits: Excessive use of caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco can affect the heart rate.

• Cardiovascular Diseases: Coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and heart muscle problems can cause this condition.

• Electrolyte Imbalance: A deficiency of minerals such as potassium, sodium, or magnesium can lead to cardiac arrhythmias.

• Other Diseases: Diabetes, chronic lung disease, and hormonal disorders (such as hyperthyroidism) can also have an effect.

• Aging: The aging of the heart's conduction system or heart muscle cells also causes irregular heartbeats.

Symptoms of Irregular Heartbeat

• Sensation of Rapid or Slow Heartbeat: You may feel the heart beating irregularly, sometimes pounding or skipping a beat (palpitations).

• Chest Pain: Some people may experience pain or chest tightness.

• Shortness of Breath: You may encounter difficulty breathing or a feeling of insufficient oxygen.

• Fatigue: Unusual tiredness, even when not very active.

• Dizziness or Fainting: Some cases can lead to fainting (syncope) or feelings of dizziness.

Diagnosis of Irregular Heartbeat

• Clinical Examination: The doctor will conduct a general health check, ask about symptoms and medical history, and listen to the heart.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): The main tool to record the electrical activity of the heart and detect arrhythmias.

• Holter Monitoring: Wearing a device to monitor heart rate continuously for 24-48 hours.

• Blood Tests: To check for electrolyte imbalances and overall health status.

• Echocardiogram: To assess the structure and function of the heart.

Treatment for Irregular Heartbeat

• Lifestyle Changes: Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or physical activities. Focus on a balanced diet and limit stimulants like caffeine and alcohol.

• Medication: The doctor may prescribe anti-arrhythmic drugs or heart rate-slowing medications.

• Cardioversion: Performed to restore a normal heart rhythm.

• Ablation Therapy: Elimination treatment using extreme cold (cryoablation) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) techniques.

• Implantable Devices: Pacemakers and defibrillators.

Prevention of Irregular Heartbeat

• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet and regular exercise.

• Manage Stress: Learn relaxation techniques to reduce stress.

• Regular Health Monitoring: Regular health check-ups to detect health problems early.

An irregular heartbeat can be a sign of many underlying health issues. If you experience this symptom, seek medical advice immediately. Cardiovascular healthcare is very important to protect your overall health.