Unignore Symptoms of An Irregular Heartbeat

     Many people mistakenly believe that their heart beats in sync with the rhythm of music, like the fast-paced sound of bass or drums. In reality, a person's heart rate is controlled by their physical activity and emotional state, not by external sounds. You can check your heart rate by taking your pulse. If you feel palpitations while resting or when you are calm, it could be a sign of arrhythmia—a silent and potentially dangerous condition that you should get checked out.

Understanding Arrhythmia

     Arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm caused by a problem with the heart's electrical system. This can cause the heart to beat too slowly (under 60 beats per minute), too fast (over 100 beats per minute), or irregularly, alternating between fast and slow rhythms. While some types of arrhythmia are harmless, severe cases can lead to serious complications and even be life-threatening.

Main Causes of Arrhythmia

While arrhythmia can sometimes occur without a clear cause, it is generally linked to several factors:

• Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, obesity, chronic kidney failure, or sleep apnea can be contributing factors.
• Heart and Vascular Diseases: This is a major cause and includes coronary artery disease, abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, congenital heart defects, high blood pressure, and heart valve disorders.
• Certain Medications: Some drugs, especially stimulants like pseudoephedrine (found in some cold medications) and bronchodilators, can trigger arrhythmia.
• Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol: Overconsumption of caffeinated beverages, energy drinks, soda, and alcohol can lead to heart rhythm issues.
• Weight Loss Drugs: Medications containing sibutramine, while helping with appetite and metabolism, can cause a fast heart rate, high blood pressure, and palpitations. This drug also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Genetics: A family history of arrhythmia or other heart conditions can also increase your risk.

How to Check for an Irregular Heartbeat

If you suspect you have an irregular heartbeat, start by checking your own pulse. If it's erratic, too fast, or too slow, you should see a doctor for a professional diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend one of the following tests:

• Electrocardiography (EKG/ECG): Electrodes are placed on your skin to record your heart's electrical activity and rhythm. This is most effective when done while you are experiencing symptoms.
• Exercise Stress Test (EST): An EKG is performed while you walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike to see how your heart responds to physical exertion.
• Echocardiogram (Echo): This test uses sound waves to create a detailed image of your heart's structure and function, showing how well it is pumping and relaxing.
• Holter Monitor: A portable device you wear for 24 hours or longer to continuously record your heart's rhythm. This is often used for patients who have unexplained palpitations or fainting spells.
• Event Recorder: A small, portable device you can carry and place on your chest to record your EKG when you feel symptoms. The data is then sent to your doctor. This is ideal for those who have infrequent symptoms.
• Implantable Loop Recorder: A device surgically placed under the skin of your chest to record your heart's rhythm for up to 2-3 years, making it suitable for people with very infrequent symptoms.
• Electrophysiology (EP) Study: If other tests don't provide answers, a doctor may perform this procedure to stimulate your heart and pinpoint the exact cause of the arrhythmia.