szívrendellenességektl

Szívrendellenességek, commonly referred to as heart rhythm disorders or arrhythmias, encompass a range of conditions where the heart's electrical activity is disrupted, causing it to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. These abnormalities can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively throughout the body.

Causes of arrhythmias are varied and can include underlying heart disease, such as coronary artery disease or heart failure, as well as non-cardiac factors like electrolyte imbalances, thyroid problems, stress, certain medications, and excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption. Congenital heart defects can also predispose individuals to rhythm disturbances.

Symptoms can range from mild and unnoticeable to severe and life-threatening. Some individuals may experience palpitations, a feeling of a racing or fluttering heart, while others might feel skipped beats. More significant symptoms can include dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting (syncope), and in extreme cases, cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a primary tool for recording the heart's electrical activity. Longer-term monitoring may be achieved through Holter monitors or event recorders. Other tests like echocardiograms, stress tests, or electrophysiology studies might be used to further investigate the cause and severity of the arrhythmia.

Treatment strategies depend on the specific type and severity of the arrhythmia, as well as the individual's overall health. Options may include lifestyle modifications (e.g., reducing caffeine, alcohol, and stress), medications to control heart rate or rhythm, or procedures like cardioversion (using an electrical shock to restore normal rhythm) or catheter ablation (using heat or cold energy to destroy abnormal heart tissue). For some, implantable devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may be necessary to regulate the heartbeat or prevent sudden cardiac arrest.