Herzrhythmusstörung

Herzrhythmusstörung, also known as arrhythmia, refers to any disturbance in the normal rhythm of the heart's electrical activity. The heart's electrical system is responsible for coordinating the contraction of the heart muscles, which pumps blood throughout the body. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to an irregular heartbeat, which may cause symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or even fainting.

Arrhythmias can be classified into several categories based on their origin and the specific pattern of the heartbeat. Some common types include:

- Bradyarrhythmias: These occur when the heart beats too slowly, often less than 60 beats per minute. Examples include sinus bradycardia and atrioventricular (AV) block.

- Tachyarrhythmias: These occur when the heart beats too quickly, often more than 100 beats per minute. Examples include sinus tachycardia and ventricular tachycardia.

- Extrasystoles: These are single abnormal heartbeats that occur between normal beats. They can be benign or indicative of an underlying heart condition.

- Reentrant arrhythmias: These occur when the heart's electrical impulse travels in a circle, causing the heart to beat too quickly or too slowly. Examples include atrial flutter and ventricular tachycardia.

The causes of arrhythmias can vary widely and may include heart disease, high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, certain medications, or even stress. Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity and identify any abnormalities.

Treatment for arrhythmias depends on the type and severity of the condition. It may include lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures such as cardioversion or ablation. In severe cases, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) may be recommended to monitor and treat life-threatening arrhythmias.