sydänrytmin

Sydänrytmi refers to the pattern of the heartbeat. It describes the sequence of electrical and mechanical events that cause the heart to contract and pump blood throughout the body. Normally, the heart beats in a regular and coordinated rhythm, controlled by the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's natural pacemaker. This electrical impulse travels through the atria, causing them to contract, then through the atrioventricular (AV) node, and finally down into the ventricles, leading to their contraction.

Variations in the normal sydänrytmi are known as arrhythmias or heart rhythm disorders. These can manifest as a heart beating too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly. Causes of arrhythmias are diverse and can include underlying heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, certain medications, stress, or congenital defects.

Symptoms associated with abnormal sydänrytmi can vary widely. Some individuals may experience no symptoms at all, while others might feel palpitations (a fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest), shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, or fainting. Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity, and sometimes longer-term monitoring methods like Holter monitors. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the arrhythmia and may include medication, lifestyle changes, or procedures like cardioversion or pacemaker implantation. Understanding one's sydänrytmi is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health.