Kammiohäiriö

Kammiohäiriö, also known as ventricular arrhythmia, is a type of abnormal heart rhythm originating in the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. These disruptions in the heart's electrical activity can cause the ventricles to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. The ventricles are responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body, so their proper function is crucial.

The symptoms of kammiohäiriö can vary widely depending on the severity and duration of the arrhythmia. Some individuals may experience no symptoms, while others might feel palpitations, a racing heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or even fainting. In severe cases, kammiohäiriö can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

Several factors can contribute to the development of kammiohäiriö. These include underlying heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and cardiomyopathy. Other causes can be electrolyte imbalances, certain medications, recreational drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Sometimes, kammiohäiriö can occur in individuals with structurally normal hearts, and the cause may be unknown.

Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity. Holter monitoring, which records the heart rhythm over a longer period, may also be used. Treatment strategies depend on the type and severity of the kammiohäiriö. Options can include medications to control heart rate and rhythm, lifestyle modifications, or medical procedures like catheter ablation or the implantation of a pacemaker or defibrillator.