Understanding Bad Food for Heart Health: What to Avoid

Cardiac arrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm caused by disruptions in the electrical impulses that regulate heartbeats. Normally, the heart’s electrical system ensures a steady, rhythmic contraction, allowing for efficient pumping of blood. However, in arrhythmia, these signals may be too fast, too slow, or irregular, disrupting the heart's normal function.

Various factors can contribute to arrhythmia, including structural changes in the heart, damage from a heart attack, or conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid disorders. The heart’s conduction system involves the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, and specialized pathways that transmit signals. If these pathways are disrupted or damaged, abnormal heart rhythms may result.

Arrhythmias are classified into different types: tachycardia (fast heart rate), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and irregular rhythms like atrial fibrillation or ventricular fibrillation. Symptoms can range from palpitations and dizziness to more severe outcomes like fainting, chest pain, or even sudden cardiac arrest.

Treatment for arrhythmia depends on the type and severity. Medications, electrical cardioversion, ablation procedures, or implantable devices like pacemakers may be used to restore or manage normal heart rhythm, reducing the risk of complications like stroke or heart failure.