Arrhythmia

Further Information

• American Heart Association
• Heart and Stroke Foundation
• North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology

Interactive Learning

Arrhythmias are pattern and/or speed changes from the normal heart rhythm. A slow heartbeat is called bradycardia and a rapid heartbeat is called tachycardia.

Arrhythmia can also mean that your heart beats irregularly (skips a beat or has an extra beat). The upper chambers of the heart are called the atria, and the lower chambers the ventricles. Arrhythmias can occur in both the atria and the ventricles.

In both tachycardia and bradycardia, lack of blood flow to the brain, the coronary arteries, or the rest of the body can occur. Lack of blood flow to the brain can cause dizziness or fainting. Lack of blood supply to the coronary arteries can cause chest pain or pressure (angina). Inadequate blood supply to the rest of the body can cause weakness and shortness of breath.

Arrythmias can be managed with a variety of medicines including calcium-channel blockers, beta-blockers and digoxin. The goal of treatment is to slow down the rate of ventricular contractions and to bring the heart rate back to normal.