Arrhythmia is one of the common heart function abnormalities. However, the concerning issue is that many people still believe this condition is not dangerous because some patients continue their daily lives without realizing that the symptoms may progressively worsen. In fact, “arrhythmia” has varying degrees of severity that require monitoring, as the most severe level… can lead to death!!
What is considered “arrhythmia”?
The normal heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute. This means that if the heart rate is below 60 beats per minute, this slower-than-normal rate falls under arrhythmia. At the same time, if the heart rate is above 100 beats per minute, this faster-than-normal rate is also considered arrhythmia.
Arrhythmia… recognize these warning symptoms
- If the heart rate is slower than normal, it can cause dizziness, palpitations, low blood pressure, and may lead to fainting.
- If the heart rate is faster than normal, it can cause easy fatigue, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, lightheadedness, and increase the risk of heart attack and sudden death.
Initial heart rate measurement… by practicing pulse checking
Since we are not always near a doctor 24/7, the easiest way to check your heart rate is by practicing pulse checking yourself. Use your index and middle fingers (or ring finger as well) to touch the wrist near the thumb, then count the number of beats in 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get your pulse rate.
Diagnosing arrhythmia with medical technology
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) during symptoms
- 24-hour Holter Monitoring, which continuously records heart rate to detect abnormalities promptly for immediate treatment
- Exercise stress test (EST) to evaluate heart function during physical activity
- Echocardiogram (high-frequency ultrasound)
- Cardiac electrophysiology study to examine the heart’s electrical conduction system
How dangerous is arrhythmia… this silent threat?
The most common dangerous arrhythmia we encounter is atrial fibrillation, also known as atrial flutter. It is the most frequent type of arrhythmia caused by abnormal contraction of the atria, resulting in a fast and irregular heartbeat. This reduces the heart’s pumping efficiency… leading to “heart failure”. The scattered stimulation in the atria causes blood to pool and stagnate, increasing the risk of blood clots that can block cerebral arteries up to 5 times more than in the general population. This is why patients have a higher risk of death!!
Preventing arrhythmia… starts with self-care
- Avoid “stress” because stress triggers the release of hormones and neurotransmitters that can cause the heart to beat faster and irregularly
- Avoid stimulants such as tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, and smoking
- Exercise regularly but avoid overexertion
- Prioritize health check-ups and see a doctor promptly if abnormalities are noticed