Arrhythmias

 The heart is an organ that works due to the electrical impulses generated by cardiomyocytes. These impulses favor the heartbeat to be carried out in a continuous, coordinated and rhythmic way. Arrhythmias occur when there is an alteration in the rhythm of the heart.

In adults, the normal heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. This rhythm is usually slower in young people and during sleep. Likewise, when exercising or in times of stress or tension, the heart rate increases.

Causes of arrhythmia

Arrhythmias occur when the heart's electrical system does not work normally, this may be due to:

•Heart problems such as coronary artery problems, malfunctioning valves, cardiac failure.

•Some drugs such as those used for hypertension or lung problems.

•Congenital defects, due to anomalies present from birth.

•Consumption of certain substances can also cause a heart rhythm problem such as alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, or drugs.

•Daily life situations such as stress, excessive exercise, etc.

•Other hidden heart problems.

Types of arrhythmias

Arrhythmias can be classified by their origin, by the cause that causes them or by their repetition. However, the most common classification is by frequency

•Rapid or tachycardias : these can be caused by exercise, consumption of substances, stimulant drugs or by situations of discomfort. An overactive thyroid gland favors rapid arrhythmias.

•Slow or bradycardias : these can appear when pain, hunger, fatigue or digestive disorders occur. An underactive thyroid gland can lead to slow arrhythmias.

Symptoms of arrhythmias

Arrhythmias vary greatly from one person to another, sometimes they can be intense and the person perceive the heartbeat, at other times they can be imperceptible. However, the intensity of the heart rhythm does not have to be related to the severity or not of the arrhythmia. The most important thing about this disorder is to determine the cause in order to treat it.

The person suffering from a certain type of arrhythmia has a tendency to suffer this same arrhythmia repeatedly. Some types of arrhythmias cause few or no symptoms, but they can cause problems. Others never cause major problems, but on the contrary, they do cause symptoms.

In general, symptoms that can signal that an arrhythmia is occurring are dizziness, weakness, fainting, shortness of breath, or decreased ability to exercise. If symptoms persist, it is necessary to see a doctor urgently so that they can assess the severity.

Diagnosis of arrhythmias

Usually when you go to the doctor and a description of the symptoms is made, the diagnosis is usually clear. The complementary tests to confirm it are:

The electrocardiogram is usually the test of choice to confirm the diagnosis and find out the cause. By means of the graphic representation of the electrical impulses of the heart it is determined if there is any alteration. However, the electrocardiogram shows the heart rhythm at that time and arrhythmias can be intermittent, there is a portable device called Holter that the patient will carry with him to record the electrical activity of his heart for 24 or 48 hours. If the arrhythmia is believed to be potentially serious, the patient may be admitted to the hospital while the test is being performed.

When the arrhythmia is potentially severe, a device can also be implanted under the skin and remains there for a long time to be able to transmit the electrical irregularities of the heart. This device is painless.

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