Determining The Different Types Of Heart Arrhythmia

Your heart's rhythm is controlled by its electrical system. The sinoatrial node (located at the top of the right atrium) generates electrical signals that travel downward, spreading throughout the atria and ventricles. Any disruption in those signals can result in a heart arrhythmia (HA).

There are two main types of arrhythmias: tachycardia and bradycardia. The former defines a heartbeat that is too fast; the latter is marked by a too-slow heartbeat. While some arrhythmias are dangerous, most are innocuous. In fact, many people have them without their realizing it. Below, we'll describe the different ways an HA can manifest, and some of the symptoms that often accompany the condition.

Premature Heartbeats

This is the most prevalent form of HA and can occur in the atria or ventricles. The electrical signals occasionally cause one or more chambers to contract too early, before the chamber can fill completely with blood. A premature beat can be triggered by increased stress, an elevated nicotine level, or strenuous activity. Normally harmless, it feels like a quick flutter. Treatment is seldom needed.

Accelerated Heartbeats

A heart rhythm that is too fast can emerge in several forms. For example, atrial fibrillation is characterized by a fluttering of the atria due to erratic electrical impulses. Rather than coming from the sinoatrial node, the signals originate elsewhere in the atria, or within one of the pulmonary blood vessels. The atria quiver, hampering your heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. As a result, you might feel winded and dizzy after mildly demanding physical activity. Severe cases can lead to stroke and heart failure.

Atrial flutter can also occur. The condition is similar to atrial fibrillation with one exception: the electrical impulses are not erratic. They are simply too fast.

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is defined by electrical signals that start in the atria, travel through the ventricles, and then circle back to the atria again. It usually happens quickly and ends, rather than occurring over and over. As such, it is rarely dangerous.

Slowed Heartbeats

Bradyarrhythmia is a condition in which your heartbeat is much slower than normal. It can be caused by heart attack, certain medications, thyroid issues, and chemical imbalances. The danger is that a bradyarrhythmia can slow your heart to the point that it pumps an insufficient amount of blood to your brain. That can lead to bouts of unconsciousness.

As noted, the arrhythmias described above can affect your atria or ventricles. For example, tachycardias can manifest through atrial or ventricular fibrillation. Bradyarrhythmias can likewise occur as the result of disease or defect in the atria or ventricles.

Depending on the severity of the arrhythmia and its underlying catalyst, your doctor may recommend medications, surgery, or a combination of both. Mild arrhythmias can often be managed by installing a pacemaker. On the other hand, severe atrial fibrillation may require maze surgery in order to resolve the condition permanently. Consult your physician and discuss your options in light of the type of arrhythmia you have, and its long-term effects on your quality of life.