February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on your cardiovascular health and learn how to keep your heart beating strong and steady. While many people associate heart disease with heart attacks or high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders — also known as arrhythmias — are another important aspect of heart health that deserves attention.
What Is a Heart Arrhythmia?
A heart arrhythmia occurs when the electrical signals that control your heartbeat do not function properly. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow or irregularly. Some arrhythmias cause noticeable symptoms, while others may go undetected until discovered during a routine exam or cardiac test.
Cardiology specialists diagnose arrhythmias using tools such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), heart monitors and imaging studies. These tests help physicians better understand how the heart is functioning and determine the best course of care.
Common Types of Heart Arrhythmias
Arrhythmias are typically categorized based on how they affect heart rate and rhythm.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat rapidly and irregularly. AFib may cause sensations such as fluttering, pounding or racing in the chest and can increase the risk of stroke if left untreated.
Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter is similar to atrial fibrillation in that it originates in the upper chambers of the heart. However, the rhythm tends to be more organized than AFib, though still abnormally fast. Symptoms can be similar and may include palpitations, fatigue or shortness of breath.
Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rhythms)
Tachycardia refers to a resting heart rate over 100 beats per minute. Common forms include:
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), which begins above the lower chambers of the heart
- Ventricular tachycardia (VT), which originates in the lower chambers
Some fast heart rhythms are harmless, while others can be serious and require prompt medical evaluation.
Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rhythm)
Bradycardia occurs when the heart beats fewer than 60 times per minute. While a slower heart rate can be normal for some individuals, especially athletes, it may cause symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue or fainting if the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
Premature Heartbeats
Premature heartbeats are extra beats that occur earlier than expected in the normal rhythm. They are often felt as a skipped beat or brief flutter and are usually harmless. However, frequent premature beats may warrant further evaluation.
Why Understanding Arrhythmias Matters
Heart arrhythmias range from mild conditions that simply require monitoring to more serious disorders that need medical treatment. Certain rhythm abnormalities can increase the risk of complications, including stroke or heart failure, if not properly managed.
Possible symptoms of an arrhythmia include:
- Fluttering or racing heartbeat
- Slow or irregular pulse
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or chest discomfort
Recognizing these symptoms early can help ensure timely care.
What You Can Do This Heart Health Month
Heart Health Month is an ideal time to focus on prevention and awareness. Consider taking these steps to support your heart health:
- Schedule a heart checkup if you experience changes in your heartbeat
- Learn about your personal and family heart health history
- Maintain heart-healthy habits, including regular physical activity and balanced nutrition prioritizing heart health
If you have concerns about heart rhythm issues, a Southwoods cardiology provider can evaluate your symptoms and help create a personalized care plan.