Types
There are several types of arrhythmias, which are broadly classified as either supraventricular (start in the upper chambers, atria) or ventricular (start in the lower chambers, ventricles).
Occurrence
Occur as tachycardia (fast heartbeat, can be 200 beats per minute) or bradycardia (slow heartbeat) and ‘fluttering’. Arrhythmia can lead to heart failure.
Symptoms
• irregular, rapid or slow heartbeat
• sensation of ‘skipping’ a beat (ectopics)
• light-headiness or dizziness
• fatigue or exercise intolerance
Serious arrhythmia symptoms
Shortness of breath, chest pain, anxiety, and fainting, Diagnosis: through ECG or wearing a Holter monitor for 24 hours.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to restore a steady heart rhythm.
Treatments include:
• implantation of a defibrillator (ICD) or pacemaker
• cardioversion – electrical signal/shock targets the affected area of your heart.
• cardiac ablation: ‘cutting’ the electrical pathways of your heart with a radiofrequency signal (hot) or cryoablation, (cold).
Arrhythmias develop from
Infections/inflammation of the heart muscle, heart valve disease, heart attack, or genetic factors. 44% of serious Covid-19 infections developed arrhythmias (2020 study).
Complications
Arrhythmias can become complicated by diabetes or thyroid disease.
