rytmihäiriötä

Rytmihäiriö is a Finnish term referring to cardiac arrhythmias, which are irregularities in the heart's rhythm. This can manifest as the heart beating too fast, too slow, or irregularly. These disturbances are caused by problems with the heart's electrical system, which controls the timing of heartbeats. Common symptoms can include palpitations, a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or even fainting. However, some individuals may experience no symptoms at all.

The causes of arrhythmias are varied and can include underlying heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, or heart failure. Other contributing factors can be high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, thyroid disorders, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, and stress. While some arrhythmias are benign and require no treatment, others can be serious and increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, or sudden cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and often an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity. Further tests like Holter monitoring (continuous ECG recording over 24-48 hours) or an echocardiogram may be used to assess heart structure and function. Treatment strategies depend on the type and severity of the arrhythmia and can include lifestyle modifications, medications to control heart rate or rhythm, electrical cardioversion to reset the heart rhythm, or implantation of a pacemaker or defibrillator in more severe cases. Regular medical check-ups are important for individuals with known or suspected arrhythmias.