Arrhythmias are improper beating of the regular rhythmic heart beat. It is seen in normal people, indicating the presence of no major illness. It is also a stepping stone to cardiac problems and stroke. It is a life threatening condition. Also referred to as dysrhythmia, the causative factors are varied. Convalescence post surgery, heart diseases, muscular changes in the heart, bruise from a heart attack and imbalance in electrolytes are a few to mention. Arrhythmias are of various types' namely atrial flutter, bradyarrhythmia, ventricular tachycardia, sinus node dysfunction, premature ventricular contractions, atrial fibrillation, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and premature atrial contractions. Giddiness, breathing trouble, fatigue, palpitation and chest discomfort are symptoms to look for in arrhythmia.
Diagnosis includes stress test, ECG or electrocardiogram, electrophysiology study, event monitor, cardiac catheterization and holter monitor. The type of arrhythmia and the severity determines the kind of treatment. Blood thinners are used as a part of the anticoagulant therapy. Beta blockers are recommended as a part of the anti-arrhythmic drugs. These help in regulation of heart beat.
answered by Dr C