Heart Arrythmia Signs Symptoms and Treatment

Heart arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, is a problem with the electrical impulses coordinate how the heart beats, a disorder the heart rate or rhythm. If the heart beats too fast it is called tachycardia. If the heart beats to slowly it is call bradycardia.

Risk factors for getting an arrhythmia vary, but can depend upon the condition of the heart, blood chemistry imbalances, endocrine abnormalities and past history of a heart attack. A physician can diagnose conditions such as an imbalance of blood chemistry or endocrine disorder.

Arrhythmia can be caused by drugs or substances, such as caffeine, amphetamines, cocaine, beta blockers, psychotropic drugs and sympathomimetics. If you are experiencing arrhythmia, talk to your doctor about substances that cause the symptoms. A doctor may be able to make a change in prescriptions. If you drink coffee or nonprescription drugs that cause irregular heartment, try to quit or reduce intake by tapering down.

Symptoms of Arrhythmia include chest pain, fainting, heart palpitations, dizziness or light headed feeling, pale skin, shortness of breath, sweating and changes in the pulse.

Some heart arrhythmias can be life threatening, so it is important to talk to your doctor about heart related symptoms. Complications that may follow arrhythmia include angina, heart attack, heart failure, stroke or sudden death.

A doctor may recommend a surgery, temporary pacemaker, electrical shock therapy, intravenous medication, beta blocker medications of anti arrhythmia drugs. The doctor or cardiac specialist is the best person to evaluate symptoms and suggest a treatment plan

Lifestyle changes that you can make to prevent coronary artery disease may help to reduce your chance of developing arrhythmia. Lifestyle changes that can help to prevent coronary artery disease include a low fat diet, not smoking and avoiding second hand smoke. Lifestyle Recommendations from the American Heart Association

A diet low in fat that emphasizes fruits and vegetables is a heart healthy diet that can also help to control weight and overall health. The Dash Diet or Mediterranean Diet are generally considers good healthy healthy nutrition plans. Dash Diet for Heart Health: Prevent High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease

Physical activity can help the strengthen the heart function. If you have not been exercising, or want to increase physical activity, it is important to talk to your doctor and get their go ahead. A daily walk can help improve the condition of the heart, step by step. If you are out of condition you can start the program with a few minutes a day and increase the duration of the physical activity.

Smoking and second hand smoke have been linked to heart disease, so if you smoke stop smoking. Avoid spending time with people who smoke and expose your to second hand smoke. Smoking at Home Risks Health of Loved Ones

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions about a medical condition, please consult a physician.

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