Cardiac arrhythmia It is an alteration of the normal rhythm of the heart that can be faster, slower or irregular. Although not all arrhythmias involve serious risks, some can lead to life-threatening complications. Understanding their symptoms, types and treatments are key to preserving cardiovascular health.
What is a cardiac arrhythmia
A cardiac arrhythmia is a modification in the natural rhythm heart failure, which occurs when the electrical impulses that regulate it do not work properly. During the cardiac cycle, the heart beats in two phases: diastole, where the heart relaxes and fills with blood, and systole, where it contracts to pump blood to the rest of the body. This process is usually regular, but problems in the electrical system can disrupt this rhythm.
Early detection and proper diagnosis are essential to treat arrhythmia and prevent serious complicationsThe most common tests include electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter monitoring, and electrophysiological studies.
Symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia
The symptoms of arrhythmia can vary depending on its type and severity. These are the most common:
- palpitations: Sensation that the heart is beating irregularly, forcefully, or too fast. It may feel like "jumping" in the chest.
- Dizziness or fainting: Decreased blood flow to the brain can cause episodes of dizziness or fainting.
- Tiredness and fatigue: Lack of efficient blood pumping can lead to constant feelings of exhaustion.
- Chest pain: Some people experience pressure or discomfort in the chest area.
- Difficulty breathing: Failure to pump blood can cause difficulty breathing, especially during physical activities.
Types of cardiac arrhythmias
There are multiple types of arrhythmias that are classified according to their origin and specific characteristics:
- Tachycardia: Rapid heart rate, with more than 100 beats per minute. It can be subdivided into atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and supraventricular tachycardia.
- Bradycardia: Slow heart rate, less than 60 beats per minute. This may be due to problems with the sinus node or cardiac conduction blocks.
- Atrial fibrillation: Rapid, irregular contractions of the upper chambers of the heart, associated with an increased risk of stroke.
- Ventricular fibrillation: Disorganized heartbeats in the lower chambers, a serious condition that can cause cardiac arrest.
- Extrasystoles: Premature heartbeats that may feel like "jumps" in the chest and are often harmless.
How cardiac arrhythmia should be treated
Treatment for arrhythmia depends on the type, severity, and underlying cause. Common strategies include:
- Pharmacotherapy: Medications to regulate heart rhythm, such as beta blockers or blood thinners to prevent clots.
- Cardioversion: Procedure to restore a normal heart rhythm by means of controlled electrical shocks.
- Catheter ablation: Destruction of abnormal heart tissue that causes arrhythmias by heat or cold.
- Pacemaker: Implanted device to regulate slow heart rhythms.
- Implantable defibrillators: Devices that detect and treat abnormal rhythms using electrical shocks.
- Surgery: Procedures such as the maze technique in cases of severe uncontrolled arrhythmias.
In addition, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and managing stress are essential to complement these treatments and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Cardiac arrhythmia is a condition that can be effectively managed and treated with the right combination of diagnosis, medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Detecting symptoms and seeking medical attention early can make a big difference in the quality of life of people who suffer from it.