Sudden palpitations, a racing heart, or lightheadedness may stem from infatuation, but they can also signal a serious underlying condition: arrhythmia. While falling in love triggers hormonal responses that increase heart rate and blood flow, persistent symptoms such as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, or fatigue warrant immediate medical attention.
Arrhythmia is a condition where abnormal electrical impulses in the heart cause irregular heartbeats, compromising efficient blood circulation. Medically, there are over ten types of arrhythmias, categorized by cause, symptoms, or treatment. For clarity, they are broadly classified into two main types:
Characterized by a heart rate below 60 beats per minute. Mild symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, syncope, low blood pressure, and fatigue. Severe cases often result in fainting.
Defined by a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute. Mild symptoms may involve easy fatigue and a rapid heartbeat. Severe symptoms include chest pain, presyncope, and low blood pressure, which can indicate impending heart failure or sudden cardiac death.
While both arrhythmia and infatuation can cause a racing heart or lightheadedness due to hormonal responses (e.g., adrenaline, norepinephrine, oxytocin), it is crucial to differentiate. If palpitations are accompanied by dizziness, blurred vision, or shortness of breath, particularly with severe symptoms such as chest pain or fainting, arrhythmia should be suspected. Prompt medical evaluation is essential.
Individuals experiencing symptoms indicative of arrhythmia should seek immediate medical consultation for thorough diagnosis and screening. This is especially critical for those with a history of fainting, severe palpitations, or chronic shortness of breath, as early intervention can prevent severe complications.
Modern treatment for arrhythmia, primarily radiofrequency catheter ablation, offers a high cure rate of 95-98%, often eliminating the need for lifelong medication. Treatment outcomes depend on the specific symptoms, type of arrhythmia, and a detailed assessment by a specialist.
Individuals at risk should adopt the following preventive measures:
Ramkhamhaeng Hospital offers various heart health screening packages:
