Rütmihäiretega

Rütmihäiretega, also known as arrhythmia, refers to a group of conditions where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. These disturbances in the heart's electrical system can affect its ability to pump blood effectively throughout the body. Symptoms can vary widely and may include palpitations, a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, or even chest pain. Some arrhythmias are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally.

The causes of arrhythmias are diverse. They can be congenital, meaning present from birth, or acquired due to factors such as heart disease, high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, thyroid problems, certain medications, alcohol, or stimulant use. Stress and lack of sleep can also contribute to irregular heartbeats in some individuals.

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to record the heart's electrical activity. Further tests like Holter monitoring (a portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours), event recorders, echocardiograms, or electrophysiology studies may be used to identify the specific type and cause of the arrhythmia.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the arrhythmia, as well as the presence of underlying conditions. Options can include lifestyle modifications, medications to control heart rate or rhythm, procedures like cardioversion to restore a normal rhythm, or catheter ablation to destroy abnormal heart tissue. In some cases, a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) may be necessary to regulate the heartbeat. Regular medical follow-up is important for managing rütmihäiretega.