A heartbeat that is irregular heartbeat could be alarming, especially when it occurs frequently or has symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or fatigue. Arrhythmia — also referred to by the term cardiac rhythm problem is when your heart isn’t beating in a regular rhythm. Sometimes, your heart is beating too quickly, too slowly, or in a different way.
Dr. Sunny Malhotra, a specialist for heart issues located in Mississauga and Brampton Dr. Sunny Malhotra stresses that knowing the causes of irregular heartbeats is essential to preventing and receiving appropriate treatment. Let’s look at the most risky arrhythmia causes and the best methods to control them effectively.
1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure is one of the most significant reasons for heart rhythm issues. It makes your heart perform more efficiently, which causes changes to the structure of the heart and function, particularly within the ventricles of left ventricles. As time passes, these structural changes can disrupt the electrical signals of the heart and can lead to arrhythmias.
How to Handle It:
- Keep track of your blood pressure frequently.
- Reduce your salt intake and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits that are fresh.
- Do at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.
- Follow the prescriptions for medication consistently.
2. Coronary Artery Disease
When plaque or cholesterol builds up in your arteries, it blocks the flow of blood to your heart. This could cause irritation to the electrical system of the heart and cause irregular heartbeats, which can result in arrhythmias or even heart attacks.
How to Deal With It:
- Make sure you eat a heart-healthy and balanced diet high in fiber and low in saturated fat.
- Quit smoking to boost blood circulation.
- Be physically active and keep an appropriate weight.
- Reduce stress by using yoga or relaxation techniques.
3. Diabetes
Diabetes increases the likelihood of developing an irregular heartbeat because high blood sugar levels that are high could cause damage to blood vessels and nerves that regulate the heart. Additionally, it can increase the risk of coronary arterial hypertension and coronary artery disease. Both of which can trigger arrhythmias.
How to Handle It:
- Maintain blood sugar levels within the range of your target through exercising and diet.
- Avoid excess sugar and refined carbs.
- Make sure to check your blood glucose levels regularly.
- Talk to a specialist in the heart as well as diabetes in order to keep the balance.
4. Thyroid Disorders
Overactive (hyperthyroidism) as well as inactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid glands could result in irregular heartbeats. Thyroid hormones can directly impact the rhythm of the heart and its rate. In the event of an imbalance, it can result in a rapid heart rate, palpitations, or other issues with rhythm.
How to Deal With It:
- Get your thyroid levels checked frequently.
- Use the prescribed thyroid medication according to the directions.
- Do not self-medicate or skip doses.
- Inform your specialist in heart if you notice sudden changes in your energy levels or heartbeat.
5. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea refers to a condition that causes breathing to stop repeatedly and resume throughout sleep. It reduces oxygen levels and puts pressure upon the heart. Research has shown that those with sleep apnea are more prone to suffer from heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation.
How to Handle It:
- Find out the correct diagnosis by conducting sleep studies.
- Maintain an ideal weight and stay clear of drinking before bedtime.
- Utilize the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine only if it is recommended.
- Regularly sleeping increases the levels of oxygen and heart rhythm.
6. Excessive Alcohol and Caffeine Consumption
Both caffeine and alcohol can disrupt the heart’s electrical signals, which could lead to irregular heartbeats. For some people, tiny amounts of alcohol could cause arrhythmias. Similar to caffeine, too much can cause the heart to overstimulate.
How to Handle It:
- Limit your alcohol consumption to the occasional consumption.
- Cut down on energy drinks and coffee consumption.
- Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water or herbal drinks.
- Check how your body responds to alcohol or caffeine intake.
7. Chronic Stress and Anxiety
Stress hormones, particularly cortisol and adrenaline, can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Chronic stress or anxiety may result in or aggravate heart rhythm problems due to the disruption of the heart’s electrical balance.
How to Handle It:
- Do some meditation, deep breathing, or yoga regularly.
- Keep a healthy routine and enough rest.
- Consult an expert in mental health in the event that stress has a negative impact on your daily routine.
- Enjoy the outdoors or participate in fun activities to unwind your mind.
When to See a Specialist for Heart Problems
If you frequently feel your heart beating, racing, or fluttering, these could be signs of arrhythmia. A visit to a specialist for a heart assessment is vital. When you visit the doctor for a test, such as one such as an ECG or Holter monitor are able to help detect any rhythm issues.
Dr. Sunny Malhotra and his team analyze these symptoms using detailed diagnoses and then guide patients through efficient and safe management strategies with a focus on long-term heart health.
How to Maintain a Healthy Heart Rhythm
Small changes in your lifestyle can make a difference in keeping your heart beating regular and reducing the chance of developing arrhythmia.
Simple Tips:
- A balanced diet is high in omega-3 fats.
- Keep active physically by doing moderate exercises.
- Reduce processed foods that have high levels of sodium and sugar.
- Do not smoke or inhale secondhand smoke.
- Regularly check your medical health, particularly if you suffer from any existing health issues.
A healthy lifestyle is good for the electrical system of your heart and helps keep the heart’s rhythm constant.
Common Symptoms of Irregular Heartbeat
Early recognition of symptoms can assist in the timely diagnostics and treatment. Common symptoms for heart rhythm problems include:
- Feeling of pounding or buzzing in the chest.
- Lightheadedness or dizziness.
- Breathing becomes short during exercise or rest.
- Apathy or fatigue that doesn’t have any apparent cause.
- Near-fainting or fainting episodes.
If symptoms continue to persist, seeking immediate medical attention is the best way to avoid complications.
FAQs About Arrhythmia and Heart Rhythm Disorders
1. What are the most frequent irregular heartbeats that can cause this?
Causes of irregular heartbeats are high blood pressure, as well as coronary artery disease, sleep apnea, thyroid issues, and stress. These conditions can alter the rhythm of the heart and could require evaluation by a specialist in heart disease.
2. Can lifestyle changes help manage heart rhythm disorders?
Yes. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoidance of stimulants, as well as the management of stress can dramatically enhance heart rhythm issues and ensure an optimum heartbeat.
3. When should I visit a specialist regarding heart rhythm issues?
Speak with a specialist in the field of heart whenever you experience frequent dizziness, heart palpitations, or an unusual level of fatigue. A prompt diagnosis can help you deal with irregular heartbeats before they turn into dangerous conditions.
4. Are heart rhythm disorders always dangerous?
There are a few heart rhythm problems that can pose a threat to life. Certain ones are manageable and mild; however, others could cause a stroke or cardiac arrest. It is essential to seek an evaluation from a specialist to know the level of risk.
5. What can I do to prevent irregular heartbeats naturally?
Arrhythmias can be avoided by regular exercise, a balanced diet and limiting caffeine intake, staying away from alcohol, and coping with stress efficiently. These measures help maintain the normal heart rhythm and reduce risk factors.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Sunny Malhotra often reminds us that even though some arrhythmias can be treated as harmless but others could indicate deeper heart problems. Being aware of the irregular heartbeat as well as risk factors is the initial step towards healthier heart health.
Taking proactive steps to improve your lifestyle, as well as regular checks and timely visits with a specialist in heart will ensure you live a balanced and healthy life with the ability to maintain a steady pace.
