Do you experience symptoms, such as palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath? These symptoms may indicate a health condition known as arrhythmia. It refers to an issue with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat, indicating that your heart may beat too fast, too slowly, or in an irregular pattern. We spoke to our expert Dr Sabyasachi Mukhopadhyay, Consultant Cardiologist, Manipal Hospitals, Goa, who explained this health condition, its causes, and preventive tips.
“Generally, the heart rate falls within the range of 50-100 beats per minute. However, it can increase during fever or exercise, returning to normal levels during rest and recovery. In cases of disease, abnormal heart rates may occur, warranting identification and management. Additionally, abnormal heart rhythms may coincide with irregular heart rates in certain instances”, highlighted Dr Mukhopadhyay.
What Is Arrhythmia?
According to the American Heart Association, 'arrhythmia' describes any irregularity in the rate or rhythm of a person's heartbeat. This condition can manifest as the electrical impulses being too rapid, too slow, or irregular, resulting in an erratic heartbeat.
As per the findings of StatPearls, the estimated prevalence of arrhythmias in the general population ranges from 1.5-5%, with atrial fibrillation being the most prevalent. Arrhythmias can manifest with or without symptoms and may occur intermittently, making it challenging to accurately determine their true prevalence. However, the presence of arrhythmias, regardless of symptoms, is linked to increased morbidity and mortality rates.
Causes Of Arrhythmia
Dr Mukhopadhyay listed some of the common causes of arrhythmia as follows:
- Hypertension (high blood pressue)
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Heart Failure
- Diabetes mellitus
- Kidney disease
- Hyper/Hypothyroidism
- Electrolyte abnormalities
- Degenerative diseases involving the electrical pathways in the heart
- Secondary causes due to diseases elsewhere in the body
- Binge ingestion of alcohol or coffee
- Stimulants found in certain energy drinks
- Adulterants found in foodstuffs
- Tobacco/Drugs
How To Prevent Arrhythmia
Various factors can lead to abnormal heart rate and rhythm, and treatment for each is targeted at addressing the underlying cause. Maintaining a holistic lifestyle is key to preventing irregularities in heart rate and rhythm. Dr Mukhopadhyay listed some management measures as follows:
Eat A Wholesome And Balanced Diet At Home
“This suggests prioritising home-cooked meals made from fresh, nutritious ingredients over processed foods and takeout. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients for optimal health”, added Mukhopadhyay.
Exercise Regularly
It is crucial to maintain good physical and mental health through regular physical activity. It helps to strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. As per a research review from 2020, yoga might contribute to lowering arrhythmia burden and blood pressure, and it may also positively impact heart rate.
Keep The Risk Factors In Check
This likely refers to being mindful of factors that can impact health, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and poor sleep habits. Managing these risk factors can help prevent health problems.
Visit The Doctor Regularly
Regular medical check-ups are important for monitoring health status, detecting any potential issues early, and managing chronic conditions effectively with the help of healthcare professionals.
Engage In Social And Recreational Activities
Dr Mukhopadhyay added, “Social connections and leisure activities contribute to overall well-being by providing support, reducing stress, and promoting a sense of belonging and enjoyment in life. It is also important to adopt a realistic and balanced perspective and understand that life, society, and work may not always meet our expectations. Managing expectations can help reduce disappointment and stress.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]