Irregular Heartbeat
Alternative Names:
Arrhythmia, dysrhythmia, bradyarrhythmias, tachyarrhythmias, atrial fibrillation
Definition:
Irregular heartbeat is a condition that occurs when the heart is beating at an unusual pace. The human heart typically beats 50 to 100 times per minute and irregular heartbeat occurs when the heart beats slowly (less than 60 beats per minute is called bradyarrhythmias) or rapidly (more than 200 beats per minute is called tachyarrhythmias).
Symptoms:
Chest discomfort, heart palpitations (fluttering heart sensation), breathlessness, chest pounding, fainting, weakness, fatigue
Exams/Testing:
To test for irregular heart beat a health care professional will typically administer one of the following tests: electrocardiogram, stress test, holter monitor, cardiac catheterization, event monitor, echocardiogram or a head-up tilt table test.
Outlook/Prognosis:
Most people affected by irregular heartbeat can manage the condition effectively through use of medication and lifestyle.
Causes (specific drugs):
-
March 5, 2010, 9:38 am
-
March 4, 2010, 9:08 am
-
March 2, 2010, 5:46 pm
-
March 1, 2010, 1:00 pm
