Cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rate)

About Cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rate)

An abnormal beating of the heart that is irregular, too fast or too slow. Arrhythmias occur when the electrical impulses of the heart are abnormal. The following conditions can cause an arrhythmia: thyroid disease, scar tissue from a previous heart attack, medications, previous heart trauma or congenital abnormalities. However, arrhythmias often occur for no apparent reason.

Symptoms

Light-headedness, fainting, weakness, shortness of breath, palpitations, anxiety.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. EKG or other heart monitoring (Holter or event monitor) may be done to determine the type of arrhythmia. Lab tests may be performed to identify a possible cause of the arrhythmia.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, Troponin, X-ray.

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

Depends of the cause, but may include a procedure in which heat energy is applied to a portion of the heart (called ablation treatment). This inactivates the area of the heart that is causing the arrhythmia. Other treatments include the insertion of a pacemaker, medications, and/or an internal defibrillator. For more information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov or call (301)592-8573 American Heart Association: (800)242-8721

Medical specialties

Cardiology · Pediatric Cardiology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rate).