What Is Cardiac Arrhythmia?
A cardiac arrhythmia, also referred to simply as arrhythmia, disrupts your heart's normal rhythm. Your heart beats in a coordinated pattern to pump blood efficiently throughout your body. Arrhythmias can cause your heart rate to be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or beat in an irregular pattern. This can affect how well your heart pumps blood, potentially leading to symptoms like heart palpitations (fluttering sensations in the chest), shortness of breath, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
Several factors can contribute to arrhythmias. People with underlying heart conditions like coronary artery disease or heart valve problems are at higher risk. Electrolyte imbalances, certain medications, and even excessive caffeine or alcohol intake can also play a role. Sometimes, arrhythmias can occur even in hearts with no structural abnormalities. If you experience any symptoms suggestive of arrhythmias, consulting your doctor is crucial for proper diagnosis and management to prevent complications.
