Arrhythmia

An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slowly, or with an irregular rhythm. When a heart beats too fast, the condition is called tachycardia. When a heart beats too slowly, the condition is called bradycardia.

Symptoms can include:

• A “flutter” or “skipped beat” in the chest
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Syncopal episodes (fainting)

A physician, preferably a cardiologist, should be consulted if any of these symptoms occur.

• Treatments can include:
• Changes in diet
• Anti-arrhythmic medications
• Medical procedures
• Rhythm management devices