Irregular Heartbeats
Irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias, refer to any changes from the normal sequence of electrical impulses that coordinate your heartbeats. These changes cause your heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. While these irregularities are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate serious heart conditions and require medical attention.
Understanding arrhythmias, their potential causes, diagnostic methods, and management techniques is vital for individuals experiencing irregular heartbeats. This guide provides an all-inclusive view on this issue.
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What are the common causes of irregular heartbeats?
Irregular heartbeats can be caused by several factors. These include heart conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and congenital heart defects. Other causes can include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, drug abuse, stress, and certain medications.
When should I seek medical help for irregular heartbeats?
You should consult a doctor if you frequently experience symptoms of an arrhythmia, such as palpitations, chest pain, Shortness of Breath, dizziness, fainting, or if you have a history of heart disease.
What tests are used to diagnose the cause of irregular heartbeats?
Various tests can help diagnose irregular heartbeats. These include electrocardiograms (ECG), Holter monitoring, event recording, echocardiograms, stress tests, tilt table tests, electrophysiology studies, and cardiac catheterization.
Why is an electrocardiogram (ECG) performed?
An ECG is a medical test that detects cardiac (heart) abnormalities by measuring the electrical activity generated by the heart as it contracts. Doctors use the ECG to evaluate the rate and regularity of heartbeats, the presence of any damage, the effects of drugs or devices used to regulate the heart, and the size and position of the heart chambers.
What is the role of a Holter monitor?
A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device worn by a patient to record heart rhythms over a period of 24 hours or more. This allows doctors to detect irregular heartbeats that might not be captured during a standard ECG test.
What does a stress test involve?
A stress test, also known as an exercise test or treadmill test, helps doctors assess how your heart works during physical activity. Because exercise makes your heart pump harder and faster, the test can reveal problems within your heart that might not be noticeable otherwise.
If my tests indicate a problem, which doctor should I see?
If your tests suggest an irregular heartbeat, you should consult a cardiologist. If the cause of your irregular heartbeat is related to the thyroid gland, you may need to see an endocrinologist. If anxiety or stress seems to be the trigger, a psychiatrist could be helpful.
Can lifestyle changes help manage irregular heartbeats?
Yes, lifestyle changes can be quite beneficial in managing irregular heartbeats. This may include healthy eating, regular exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol and caffeine, reducing stress, and ensuring you get enough sleep.
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