Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeat) (cont.)
What are the symptoms of arrhythmias?
An arrhythmia can be silent and not cause any symptoms. A doctor can detect
an irregular heartbeat during a physical exam by taking your pulse or through an
electrocardiogram (ECG).
When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Palpitations (a feeling of skipped heart beats, fluttering or "flip-flops," or feeling that your heart is "running away").
- Pounding in your chest.
- Dizziness or feeling light-headed.
- Fainting.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest discomfort.
- Weakness or fatigue (feeling very tired).
How are arrhythmias diagnosed?
Tests used to diagnose an arrhythmia or determine its cause include:
How are arrhythmias treated?
Treatment depends on the type and seriousness of your arrhythmia. Some people
with arrhythmias require no treatment. For others, treatments can include
medication, making lifestyle changes and undergoing surgical procedures.
What medications are used to treat arrhythmias?
A variety of drugs are available to treat arrhythmias. These include:
- Antiarrhythmic drugs. These drugs control heart-rate, and include beta-blockers.
- Anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy. These drugs reduce the risk of blood blood clots and include warfarin (a "blood thinner") or aspirin .
Because everyone is different, it may take trials of several medications and doses to find the one that works best for you.
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