Our guest today is Evelyn Gamble. Evelyn is a dedicated healthcare worker and passionate heart disease advocate. With a deep commitment to improving health outcomes, Evelyn uses her personal and professional experiences to raise awareness about heart health, particularly for young adults. As a strong voice for change, she aims to inspire others to take proactive steps in managing their heart health and to advocate for better care and resources for those affected by heart disease. Definition: A heart arrhythmia, also known as a cardiac arrhythmia, is an abnormal rhythm of the heart. It occurs when the electrical impulses that control the heart's contractions do not function properly. Causes: Heart arrhythmias can be caused by a wide range of factors, including:
- Heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, heart failure)
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium or magnesium)
- Certain medications (e.g., stimulants, caffeine)
- Thyroid disorders
- Damage to the Vagus Nerve
Types: There are many different types of heart arrhythmias, which can be classified based on the rate and rhythm of the heart:
- Tachycardia: A rapid heart rate (over 100 beats per minute)
- Bradycardia: A slow heart rate (under 60 beats per minute)
- Atrial fibrillation: A quivering or irregular rhythm of the upper chambers of the heart (atria)
- Ventricular fibrillation: A life-threatening rhythm where the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles) contract irregularly and chaotically
- Premature beats: Extra heartbeats that occur early in the rhythm
Symptoms: Some people with heart arrhythmias may not experience any symptoms. Others may have symptoms such as: Palpitations (feeling like the heart is racing or fluttering), Chest pain or discomfort, Dizziness or lightheadedness, Fainting, and Shortness of breath. Diagnosis and Treatment: To diagnose a heart arrhythmia, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history, and take an electrocardiogram (ECG). Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the arrhythmia and may include:
- Medications (e.g., beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics)
- Lifestyle changes (e.g., exercise, stress management)
- Surgery (e.g., ablation procedure)
- Implantable devices (e.g., pacemakers, defibrillators)
Outlook: The outlook for people with heart arrhythmias varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
