What are the Symptoms of Arrhythmia?
September 22, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Arrhythmia refers to abnormal heart rhythms, where the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Symptoms of arrhythmia can vary based on the type of arrhythmia and its severity. Common symptoms include:
- Palpitations: Feeling of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat. Some describe it as a sensation of the heart “skipping a beat.”
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals experience chest pain or discomfort during an arrhythmia episode.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling breathless or having difficulty catching your breath, especially during physical exertion or at rest.
- Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or a decrease in energy levels, often disproportionate to your activity level.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling light-headed, dizzy, or close to fainting. This can occur due to the heart not pumping effectively.
- Sweating: Unexplained sweating or feeling clammy, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.
- Fainting (Syncope): Some arrhythmias can cause fainting or near-fainting spells, particularly if the heart rate becomes very slow or suddenly accelerates.
- Chest Fluttering or “Fluttering” Feeling: A sensation of fluttering or flip-flopping in the chest.
- Anxiety or Restlessness: Feeling anxious or restless during an arrhythmia episode.
- Weakness or Fatigue: Sudden weakness or extreme tiredness, which can be alarming.
It’s important to note that some arrhythmias, especially minor ones, may not cause noticeable symptoms and are often detected during routine medical examinations or tests. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of arrhythmia, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider can conduct various tests to diagnose the type and severity of the arrhythmia and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures like cardioversion or ablation.