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| Arrhythmias (irregular heart beat) |
By:
Cherie Ang |
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Arrhythmias (also called disrhythmias) are abnormal heartbeats usually caused by an electrical "short circuit" in the heart. The heart normally beats in a consistent pattern, but an arrhythmia can cause it to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. This can cause the heart to pump inconsistently, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and chest pain.
Causes
Many arrhythmias have no known cause. However, a number of factors can contribute to arrhythmias. They include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, excessive use of alcohol or caffeine, drug abuse and stress. Certain substances, including some over-the-counter and prescription medications, dietary supplements and herbal remedies are known to cause arrhythmias in some people.
Types of Arrhythmias
# Atrial fibrillation: The heart beats too fast and irregularly. This type of arrhythmia requires treatment and can increase your risk of stroke.
# Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia: The heart has episodes when it beats fast, but regularly. This type of arrhythmia may be unpleasant but is usually not dangerous.
# Ectopic beats: The heart has an extra beat. Treatment usually is not needed unless you have several extra beats in a row and/or other problems with your heart (such as heart disease or congenital heart failure).
# Ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation: The heart beats too fast and may not pump enough blood. These types of arrhythmias are very dangerous and need immediate treatment.
Symptoms
* Chest pain
* Fainting
* Fast or slow heartbeat (palpitations)
* Light-headedness, dizziness
* Paleness
* Shortness of breath
* Skipping beats - changes in the pattern of the pulse
* Sweating
Treatment
* No treatment - certain arrhythmias may need no treatment.
* Antiarrhythmic drugs
* Cardioversion - electric shock to the chest wall.
* Automatic implantable defibrillators
* Artificial pacemaker
* Heart surgery
Prevention
# If you notice that your irregular heart rhythm occurs more often with certain activities, you should avoid them.
# If you smoke, stop.
# Limit your intake of alcohol.
# Limit or stop using caffeine. Some people are sensitive to caffeine and may notice more symptoms when using caffeine products (such as tea, coffee, colas and some over-the-counter medications).
# Stay away from stimulants used in cough and cold medications. Some such medications contain ingredients that promote irregular heart rhythms. Read the label and ask your doctor or pharmacist what medication would be best for you.
Cherie Ang CL
An Elken Independent distributor
Maintaining health info blog and online store
=> http://healthadviceonline.sgprofitsite.com |
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