An irregular or abnormal heartbeat is known as arrhythmia. In this condition, a heart may either beat too quickly, too slowly or in an irregular pattern or rhythm. When the electrical signals that coordinate with the heart face disruptions in working then arrhythmia occurs. It feels as if your heart is racing or fluttering.

Types of Arrhythmia

1. Atrial Fibrillation

When the atrial chambers beat irregularly, it includes tachycardia. This usually develops in adults after the age of 65 years. Rather than producing a single and strong contraction, the chambers quiver which results in a rapid heartbeat.

2. Atrial Flutter

Atrial fibrillation leads to quivers in random parts of the atrium but in atrial flutter, it is only at one area which does not function properly. Some people experience both flutter and fibrillation and it can be a serious condition.

3. Supraventricular Tachycardia

Supraventricular tachycardia leads to a rhythmically regular yet rapid heartbeat. Some people can experience an accelerated heartbeat that lasts for either a few seconds or hours.

4. Ventricular Tachycardia

The irregular electrical impulse that begins in the ventricles and leads to a fast heartbeat is known as ventricular tachycardia.

5. Ventricular Fibrillation

Irregular heart rhythm that is rapid, uncoordinated, and has fluttering contractions of the ventricles is the ventricular fibrillation condition. It can be life-threatening and has connections with heart diseases.

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Diabetes
  • Substance use disorder
  • Heart diseases
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Stress
  • High blood pressure
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Hyperthyroidism – an overactive thyroid gland
  • Excessive smoking
  • Scarring of the heart
  • Certain dietary supplements
  • Medications
  • Consumption of excessive coffee
  • Structural changes in the heart

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