Other tests used in diagnosing arrhythmias include: Take it with you to see the cardiologist or heart rhythm specialist and always keep a copy for future use. ![]() If your symptoms seem to be triggered by exercise, an exercise ECG may be needed to record your heart rhythm while you are using a treadmill or exercise bike. Some people might be asked to wear an ECG monitor for up to 14 days. ![]() This is called a Holter monitor or ambulatory ECG monitoring. This may involve wearing a small portable ECG recording device for 24 hours or longer. If the ECG doesn't find a problem, you may need further monitoring of your heart. The most effective way to diagnose an arrhythmia is with an electrical recording of your heart rhythm called an electrocardiogram (ECG). If your symptoms persist or there's a history of unexplained sudden death in your family, it's important for your GP to refer you to a heart specialist (a cardiologist or electrophysiologist who specialises in heart rhythm disorders). Symptoms of arrhythmias include palpitations, feeling dizzy, fainting and being short of breath, although having these symptoms does not always mean you have a heart rhythm problem.Īrrhythmia Alliance's heart rhythm checklists can help you gather information to discuss with your GP if you have any of these symptoms. These abnormalities range from a minor inconvenience or discomfort to a potentially fatal problem. It may beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. An arrhythmia is an abnormality of the heart's rhythm. The heart's rhythm is controlled by electrical signals. You can also make lifestyle changes so you avoid some of the triggers for your heart rhythm problem. Treatment aims to prevent future episodes. It is not always possible to prevent an arrhythmia developing, although a healthy lifestyle can lower your risk of developing a heart condition. Some of these deaths could be avoided if the arrhythmias were diagnosed earlier.Ĭommon triggers for an arrhythmia are viral illnesses, alcohol, tobacco, changes in posture, exercise, drinks containing caffeine, certain over-the-counter and prescribed medicines, and illegal recreational drugs. This kills 100,000 people in the UK every year. Having atrial fibrillation means your risk of stroke is 5 times higher than for someone whose heart rhythm is normal.Ĭertain types of arrhythmia occur in people with severe heart conditions, and can cause sudden cardiac death. You may also be at risk of developing an arrhythmia if your heart tissue is damaged because of an illness – for example, if you have had a heart attack or have heart failure, or if you have had severe coronavirus (COVID-19).Ītrial fibrillation is a common cause of stroke. Drinking alcohol in excess or being overweight increases your likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation. ![]() ventricular fibrillation – a rare, rapid and disorganised rhythm of heartbeats that rapidly leads to loss of consciousness and sudden death if not treated immediatelyĪrrhythmias can affect all age groups, but atrial fibrillation is more common in older people.heart block – the heart beats more slowly than normal and can cause people to collapse.bradycardia – the heart beats more slowly than normal.supraventricular tachycardia – episodes of abnormally fast heart rate at rest.atrial fibrillation (AF) – this is the most common type, where the heart beats irregularly and faster than normal. ![]() Most people with an abnormal heart rhythm can lead a normal life if it is properly diagnosed. Arrhythmias or heart rhythm problems are experienced by more than 2 million people in the UK.
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