Understanding arrhythmia: Types, causes, and treatments
Does it ever feel like your heart is beating too fast, too slow, or in a strange pattern? It could be an arrhythmia.
Your heart has an electrical system that tells it when to beat, but sometimes, those signals don’t work correctly. When that happens, your heartbeat can feel off—like a skipped beat, a flutter, or a racing heart.
"Many people experience occasional heart palpitations, but persistent irregular heartbeats could be a sign of something more serious. If you notice changes, don’t ignore them—talk to a doctor."— Paari Dominic, MBBS, MPH
Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others can cause problems if left untreated. If you feel your heart may be doing something unusual, it’s a good idea to talk to a cardiologist. UI Health Care’s heart and vascular services are here to help.
Types of Arrhythmia
Arrhythmias come in different forms, depending on how they affect your heart’s rhythm. Here are the most common types:
- Tachycardia – When your heart beats too fast (more than 100 beats per minute)
- Bradycardia – When your heart beats too slow (fewer than 60 beats per minute)
- Atrial fibrillation (Afib) – A common type of irregular heartbeat where the upper chambers of the heart quiver instead of beating properly
- Ventricular fibrillation – A dangerous condition where the heart’s lower chambers beat chaotically, preventing blood from being pumped properly
- Premature heartbeats – When your heart produces single extra beats in the top or the bottom chambers. It generally feels like it skips a beat
What causes arrhythmia?
Arrhythmias can happen for several reasons. Some are preventable, while others are beyond your control. Understanding these causes can help you recognize risks and take steps toward prevention when possible.
"While some arrhythmias are genetic, lifestyle factors like stress, caffeine, and certain medications can also contribute. The key is understanding your risk and making heart-healthy choices." – Dr. Dominic
Common causes include:
Feeling overwhelmed or anxious can trigger arrhythmias
Too much of these can throw off your heart's rhythm.
Conditions like high blood pressure, heart attacks, or heart failure can lead to arrhythmias.
Your heart relies on minerals like potassium, calcium, and sodium to function properly. If the levels of these are off, your heartbeat can become irregular.
Some medicines, including those for allergies and colds, can cause changes in your heart rhythm.
Sometimes, arrhythmias run in familes.
Know Your Heart Health
If you have symptoms of arrhythmia or risk factors like heart disease, don’t wait. Early diagnosis can make all the difference.
How do you know if you have arrhythmia?
Not all arrhythmias cause noticeable symptoms, but some common signs include:
- A racing, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Skipped or extra heartbeats
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Fainting or feeling close to fainting
- Severe fatigue or tiredness
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially chest pain or fainting, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away.
How is arrhythmia diagnosed?
your doctor may use several tests to check your heart's rhythm:
This quick, painless test records your heart’s electrical activity.
This is a portable device you wear for 24 hours or longer to track your heart’s activity.
Similar to a Holter monitor, this can be worn for a longer period to catch occasional arrhythmias.
This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of your heart to check for any structural problems.
The stress test measures your heart’s activity while you exercise.
Treatment options for arrhythmia
The right treatment depends on the type and severity of your arrhythmia.
Reducing stress, limiting caffeine and alcohol, quitting smoking, and getting regular exercise can help.
Your doctor may prescribe medicines to control your heart rate, prevent clots, or regulate your heart’s electrical signals.
If medication isn’t enough, your doctor may recommend:
- Cardioversion – A procedure that uses electrical shocks or medication to reset your heart’s rhythm.
- Ablation therapy – A procedure that destroys tiny areas of heart tissue causing abnormal electrical signals.
- Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) – Small devices placed under the skin to help keep your heartbeat steady.
When to see a doctor
If you experience symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting, don’t ignore them. Some arrhythmias can be dangerous, especially if left untreated. It’s always best to check in with your doctor if something feels off with your heart.
"The good news is that many arrhythmias can be managed effectively. From lifestyle adjustments to advanced treatments like ablation therapy and pacemakers, we have many ways to help patients live full, active lives." – Dr. Dominic
Arrhythmias can feel scary, but many are manageable with the right care. Whether your heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly, understanding what’s happening is the first step toward feeling better. If you’re ever unsure about your heart’s rhythm, talk to your doctor. Your heart works hard for you every day—taking care of it is one of the best things you can do for yourself.