An irregular heartbeat is commonly known as an arrhythmia, something that many people throughout their lifetime may experience. Your normal heartbeat can be affected, often causing your heart to beat too slowly or too fast, or even in an irregular pattern. Many arrhythmias are often harmless and tend to go unnoticed, but there are several different types of arrhythmias you should be aware of that could be a sign of a more serious condition. Cardiac monitoring can help you avoid more life-threatening conditions that could be present.
Atrial Arrhythmias: These occur in the upper chambers of the heart, the atria. Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia and generally aren’t life threatening but can lead to other heart problems. The best way to detect any type of arrhythmia is with an arrhythmia monitoring system like a heart monitor. Sometimes arrhythmias can occur for no obvious reason, but it can still be dangerous if you heart beats too fast.
Ventricular Arrhythmias: These tend to be the most dangerous because without treatment, they can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. They are often characterized by very fast heart rates and start in the lower chambers of the heart, the ventricles. Since the ventricles are important in circulating blood, these types of arrhythmias can be dangerous. Ventricular fibrillation, a specific type of arrhythmia, can occur without warning and stops all heart functioning.
Symptoms for arrhythmias include:
- Heart palpitations or fast heartbeats
- Slow or heavy heart pounding sensations
- Dizziness and near fainting
- Difficulty breathing
- Weakness or fatigue
Heart monitoring may be necessary if you regularly experience symptoms, but be aware that you may not experience symptoms even with an arrhythmia present. If you have symptoms or suspect you have an arrhythmia, see your doctor right away. ReactDx provides heart monitoring solutions that are focused on helping doctors achieve faster diagnoses. From mobile telemetry units to Holter monitors, we provide the most advanced heart monitoring systems in the world. Call us today at 1-800-23-HEART to learn more about our services.
