Arrhythmia

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What is Arrhythmia?

Arrhythmia is a condition characterised by the hearts failure to contract or beat at the correct time. Some people are able to feel an arrhythmia when it happens, while others cannot.

Arrhythmias can be divided into two main groups - tachyarrhythmias; where the heart beats faster than normal and bradyarrhythmias; where the heart beats slower than normal.

Tachyarrhythmias include:

Sinus tachycardia.

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.

Atrial fibrillation.

Atrial flutter.

Ventricular ectopics.

Ventricular tachycardia.

Ventricular fibrillation.

Bradyarrhythmias include:

Sinus bradycardia.

Sick sinus syndrome.

Heart block which may be first, second or third degree.

Who gets Arrhythmia?

The occurance of Arrhythmia is common, as many as 2.2 million Americans are living with atrial fibrillation (one type of arrhythmia).

A recent study has also suggested that 1 in 4 Adult Americans over the age of 40 could develop an irregular heartbeat.

Predisposing Factors

- Heart disease (coronary artery disease): The coronary arteries are blood vessels that surround the heart and carry oxygenated blood to the hard-working heart muscle that is performing the pump function for itself and the rest of the body. Blood is also necessary to maintain a biologically sound electrical conduction system within the heart.

- Cardiac valvular disease: Deposits in the cardiac valves can also involve the heart wall between the 2 large pumping chambers - the ventricles. Without the unrestricted use of the valves, regular heart rate becomes difficult at best.

- Heart failure: Heart failure results in the inability of the heart to efficiently and consistently pump, causing excess fluid to collect in the legs and lung.

- Conductive tissue disease: A number of diseases can cause excessive amounts of substances to circulate in the bloodstream, including proteins and calcium. These substances may be deposited in different locations including the kidneys, connective tissue, and the specialized conducting tissues in the heart. When these deposits do form, the conducting tissue may become abnormal in turn affecting heartbeat.

- Ingested substances: Caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, certain over-the-counter medications such as some cold medications, and prescribed medications may contribute to arrhythmia. Most of these substances act as artificial stimulants.

- Physical or psychological demands placed upon the heart due to exercise, fatigue and stress. These demands generate a cariety of hormones and stimulants which are common in people with irregular heartbeats.

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